Two Silly Monkeys

Celebrating the BIG Four-Oh!!!

2012-02-02T04:45:00.003-07:00

Dan celebrated his 40th Birthday with friends and family. Dan has been complaining about pains on his left side...tennis elbow and the t-band on his leg. Ryan and Lindsay were trying to keep things a secret, but Dad new from the beginning. The kids wanted to do a funeral for his foot. Of course, they over heard a conversation of mine. So, I had to make sure they were in on things and did Art projects. But instead of making a coffin they made a big mess making a maze. We did take pictures of his feet and made some tombstones. We were going to have a little quite moment and some over the hill music at the beginning and then have some fun while we eat. Things didn't go as planned, but oh well. Dan ended up Hosting his own Birthday Party, while I went to the Urgent care to have my hand looked at after being bitten by our dog Koda. Talk about taking the mood from a Party, before it even start. Anyways, that's a different story. I was glad to be home before he cut his cake and try to blow out his candle. We also celebrated his birthday on his actually birthdate January 31, 2012, by going out to eat as a family.

Pictures of Ryan and Lindsay 2011

2012-01-18T11:58:00.007-07:00

Not so little Anymore! They are still my Two Silly Monkeys.

2011 has come and gone so fast!

2012-01-18T11:43:00.002-07:00

I felt like 2011, I sleeped walked my way through. Yes, Literally! My kids have grow up so much. I can't believe Lindsay is now 8 years old and Ryan is almost 10 years old.

I feel almost energized. I had some health issues, but I am doing much better. I realized, I need to take care of me. I am not Womder Woman, or Super Mom, I am ME. I am learning to say NO and slow down enough to make sure I get some sleep. No more days of goig without Sleep for days and running on fumes.

Now the kids are getting older, I am looking at going back to days, just when I don't know yet. I am ready. Working 3rd shift for as long as I did was not easy and my health has taking a toll. I am actually not a failure, it was my body telling me to slow down and I needed oxygen. After spending two nights in a sleep clinic, I was not sleeping because I was not getting enough oxygen and I would stop breathing. No wonder I was so tried all the time. Yikes!

Ryan and Lindsay Off track....Yikes!

2010-10-06T05:00:00.002-06:00

Three weeks off of school and no homework packets. Not a good thing for me. Now I have to make up homework and reading assignments to do. They maybe off track and think it is all fun and games, but the rest of us has to work. No play time for Dan or I.

I think my kids are getting bored. They are up playing through out the night. While others are trying to sleep. Here I am downstairs, working on my blog and my kids have been moving around above me in Lindsay's room. I am surprise Dan has not woken up.

This is going to be a long day. If my kiddos keep me up all day when I need to get a few hours sleep in since I just came home from work.

Any suggestions? I have another week and half to go before they go back to school.

I can't believe I have a 1st and a 3rd grader!

2010-07-26T04:50:00.000-06:00

I feel like school just ended and it is already to start again. I guess that is part of being on all year round school.

This school year I will have both kids in all day school. Yeah, for me! Lindsay will be starting 1st grade and Ryan will be starting as a 3rd grader. Let hope this year will be a wonderful year at school.

I am back to doing my blog, again.

2010-07-24T05:12:00.000-06:00

I know it has been a long time since I did my blog. It has been sometime.....the last 8 months or so have been so busy or stressful.

Dan's sister got married in November. Ryan turned 8 years old in February and he was baptized March 20, 2010. My lap top monitor died when my little guy cracked the monitor. Trying to save files or transfer files from lap top to main computer or USBs. House project after house project. I think Dan is sick of painting and patching holes. Never thought I would say....I hate it when things brake down and we have to replace it or repair it. It doesn't seem to stop with just one, but another one and another one.

Ryan and Lindsay had a hard time emotional with a lot of changes in their life from their truma past, present and what is ahead for them. I ended up taken 3 weeks off of work to get my mental health back in order and to get my family back on track. This way together we can get through the bumps in the road and enjoy the smooth roads when they come.

Well, I hope I still have followers on my blog. My blog helps me remember all the good days and forgot all the bad days.

The start of this year has come and gone so fast. I can't believe we are already half way through this year. We are going to make the rest of this year even better then the first have of the year.

Updating is a slow process

2009-11-30T08:49:00.003-07:00

Sorry, I have not kept up on my blog! I have a lot to do and get caught up. We have been busy with birthdays, holidays and traveling to California for a wedding. I will hopefully have it updated in a week or two. Thanks for being patient.

Happy Birthday Lindsay!

2009-10-18T11:07:00.002-06:00

Today is Lindsay's 6th Birthday. She has been counting down her Birthday for over a year now. This last month she kept reminding me every hour her Birthday is getting closer, and she is so excited. She can't wait to turn 6 and then 7, and then 8...oh my goodness, "I can't believe I am such a big Girl."

10 things we love about Lindsay

10. She doesn't like to take naps, but when she does, "Peace and Quiet."
9. Her excitement she has for everything.
8. She loves to...talk, talk, talk, talk.
7. She loves her Mommy and Me time. Me too!
6. I love it when she hugs us and tells us she loves us.
5. Did I say she loves to....talk, talk, talk, talk.
4. I enjoy it when Lindsay is a great helper.
3. She loves surprises.
2. I am glad we are able to be her family.
1. We love Lindsay very much for who she is.

Happy Birthday!!!

Updating Blog

2009-09-05T10:54:00.002-06:00

I am working on updating my blog. I have posted some of our family highlights, but I am not done yet. I still have to go back and add photos. It might just be a little while. If you are enjoying what you are ready...just give it sometime and then I will have photos.

I have Springs!

2009-09-01T10:56:00.001-06:00

Ryan woke up this morning and started to carry a conversation with me. It was a nice conversation.

"Mom, remember what Grandpa said". Of course, with all the things that have been going on. I am not going to remember every conversation, especially every conversation he has had with everyone.

"Mom, Grandpa told me I have SPRINGS". Then he goes on, "I think Grandpa is Right. I do have Springs in my shoes. I finally understand that I bounce a lot. Really a lot."

Ryan is a very energetic boy. That is right, he is All Boy. He is always jumping or bounce against furniture. We still love him even with all his Energy. Maybe he will be the next Energizer Bunny.

Lindsay first day of Kindergarten

2009-09-01T10:33:00.000-06:00

Lindsay was so excited for her first day of Kindergarten. Then we found out her first day of school was a week after all the other school kids. She was bum she had to wait until August 3, 2009. Everyday for a week she had to watch her brother get up and get ready for school.

I was bum too. I was really looking forward to Lindsay starting school. The day finally came for her to start school. She was so excited. It was hard for me to get her to settle down so I can get a school picture of her. She already ran off to her class and seeing her friends. She rolled her eyes at me when I pulled her aside to get a hug good-bye or take a picture.

I was sad to have her not at home with me. The anticipation for her to go to school was gone. I REALLY miss not having her home with me most of the time. Of course, after a week I was fine.

Lindsay started to not like going to school since she kept having a card pulled at school everyday. When I asked her why; her response was, "I am a talker, and her teachere doesn't let her talk, talk, talk." She continues for the next hour talking about everything she did in school.

She loves coming home and showing me everyday she has a stamp. She loves doing her homework and being able to read books. A month of school and she is a new routine. But the Diva in her comes out every morning when she is trying to find the perfect outfit to wear to school...clean or dirty. Now that is another story for another day.

Our Beloved Pacey

2009-08-25T08:35:00.000-06:00

On Monday August 24, 2009 our beloved cat Pacey passed away. She was almost 11 years old. We are sad she has passed away, but she is in a better place. She leaves behind her sister Parie, her protectors Koda and Bauer. She also leaves behind her owners who took good care of her and their kids who enjoyed chasing her.

Pacey was an unusually looking Calico cat. Another way to describe Pacey's looks was an Orange Tabby who fell down the chimney. She also had Big beautiful green eyes and a belly that wobbled when she ran.

She liked to mother her sister Parie. Sometimes, Parie didn't want to get a bath, but Pacey would fight with her until she can get her penned down to give her a bath. Pacey would hide from people unless she was seeking attention. She would surprise people with licking and grooming their hair. She would also make people jump when she meowed. She can be loud, especially when she jumps up and surprises you.

Pacey most of the time was an emotional cat. Even our vet has suggested anti-depressants or Cat Therapy. Yes, medication and therapy. She stresses out when there is change. She will lick and lick until her hair starts to fall out or a new sore appears. You always knew when she was around when she meows or coughs up a hair ball. She sneaks around and hides; until she has a moment to dash right pass you. But around me she was like any other cat; very lovable and happy. She loved to cuddle at night with me. Sometimes I didn't know she was there until I rolled on top of her.

She loves to have her head rubbed. And if you can't rub her; she will find other object to rub her head against. When you start to pet Pacey; she would collapse and start moving her head against you for one of her head rubs. She loved her scratching post or any kind of toy that she can rub against. Her favorite treat is Cat Nip. To her Cat Nip was a drug of happiness for her.

Yes, our beloved Pacey was strange, but she was our strange, stressed out and lovable cat. We didn't even know how close she was to her time. We hope she enjoyed her last few weeks with us. Her body was slowly shutting down. We did not know her kidneys were not working and she was dying. We thought she caught a cold and started to loose her meow. The day we were going to take her into the Vet; it was too late.

Pacey died in her sleep in her favorite bed while rubbing her head. I know that sounds weird, but she did. She had a smile on her face and her head in her rubbing position. Pacey will always have a place in our heart. We hope she is not giving the Angels up in Heaven a hard time. We hope she is in Peace, Happy and not stressing out over her new change. If she is just give her a rubbing toy with lots of Cat Nip. She will be just fine.

Andrew Graduates from BYU

2009-08-16T10:45:00.000-06:00

My brother Drew graduated from BYU in Internation Studies. What he is going to do with that degree? At this time...I don't know.

Lindsay and Ryan were looking forward to the PARTY Uncle Drew invited them to. All day long they wanted to know when the Party was going to start.

Drew had a BBQ at the Park near his Apartments. He had a bounce slide and a joucing bouncer too. My kids were in Heaven. The bounced and bounced all night long.

Lindsay and Ryan thought Uncle Drew had the "BESTEST PARTY" in the whole world. I guess a bounce slide sure can make any kid feel WOW!

CONGRATS again DREW on your accomplishment.

Stadium of Fire

2009-07-05T09:31:00.000-06:00

Ryan and Lindsay were so surprised when they found out they were going to a Jonas concert. They were both so surprised and of course it became their "BESTEST DAY EVER."

Ryan waited and waited but patience is not his best quality. He was bored with all the other 4th of July celebrations that was going on. But HEY...give a kid a pair of binoculars and it will all go away until the munches come. Instead of saying they are hungry. Ryan and Lindsay would say, "I smell something." Or "Wouldn't it be nice to have some family time and eat candy." Or "I remember when we had some popcorn watching a movie." We just smiled and set the thought aside for awhile.

Lindsay did not want us to forget we were their to have fun. She whispered in my ear and said,"Mommy lets go surprise Ryan and Daddy with some Soda." Yes, Lindsay and I excused ourselves to use the Ladies Room. I knew what Lindsay wanted. But I knew what I wanted to do. All the way to the Ladies Room Lindsay would talk and talk and talk.

After the Ladies room...Lindsay was quiet. She started to walk back to the Stadium. I said to Lindsay, "Didn't you want to Surprise..." and that was all I could say, she already changed her expression and dashed toward the concession stand. "I am so HAPPY you took my suggestion MOM." We got nachos, kettle corn, soda, and a hot dog.

When the Concert started...SheDaisy was the opener for Jonas Brothers. Ryan was bummed. He said, "Jonas Brothers are not Girls." Lindsay was happy to dance and sing. Finally Jonas Brothers were getting ready to come out....Lindsay was screaming and jumping, but Ryan had his hands covering his ears as he tells us, "Why are those girls screaming. I can't hear the music." Finally, when they came out, Ryan couldn't believe "JONAS BROTHERS were for REAL."

The evening was wonderful to see Ryan and Lindsay having fun. Dan and I were tried after a long day and thankful we had EAR PLUGS. TWEENY Concerts are not the best when you have lots of YOUNG GIRLS screaming through the whole concert. We must be getting OLD.

Oquirrh Mountain Utah Temple

2009-06-21T09:58:00.000-06:00

On June 20, 2009 our family was able to tour the Oquirrh Mountain Utah Temple. It was a wonderful event for our family. Lindsay and Ryan were excited to go. This well be their second time to be in a Temple. But their first time to walk throughout the inside of the Temple.

The were very quiet, which is Great. Especially, since Lindsay has been very LOUD lately when she talks. Our favorite room was the sealing room. Lindsay and Ryan kepted telling everyone, "We were Married in the Temple." and "We are a For Real Family."

Once we were done touring the Temple and we were outside. It was like the claimness in both Lindsay and Ryan were gone. The were jumping and running...until they saw the fountain. If we didn't stop them; my kids would have been swimming in the fountain.

It was a Beautiful day as a family to go and tour the Temple before it was dedicated.

Enjoying the Air Show

2009-06-05T10:09:00.000-06:00

On June 2nd, 2009...another family outing...this time we took the kids to Hills Air Force Base to see their yearly Air Show.

Ryan and Lindsay couldn't believe all the Airplanes. They enjoyed watching the Air Show. Of course, it can get a little boring. Lindsay and Ryan had a bag each that they had to carry. They were so excited to find food, candy, juices, water, coloring books, crayons, sunglasses, hat, bubbles and a weird ball in their bag. Yes, I know it seems to be a lot for a kid to carry or even heavy. It was not. Only when they wanted off so they can climb on everything. It was also are way to hold on to them with the big crowd.

Mommy always know best; bring extra stuff to amuse the kids if they get bored. Ryan and Lindsay enjoyed having some time with Dad since it is his usually busy schedule at work. It worked out perfect for Dad to have a day off.

Here at the Air Show; they had a huge row of Out houses. Lindsay had to go potty several times through out the Air Show but refused to go into the Port A Potties. She was afraid of the MONSTERS. She did the potty dance while we stand in the long lines. Her potty dance and talking to her pee to not come out worked her way up to the front of the line really fast. Other People in line were letting her work her way up to the front.

Then it was Lindsay turn. She started to cry. I told her it will be OK. We get inside and she was crying and scream. She screamed, "I don't want the Monster to eat my Bottom." She finally Relaxed enough, but still was crying. Our little adventure to the Out Houses was a good hour experience, 45 minutes to get her to go potty. She finally concord her FEAR of the "Port A Potty Monster".

We had a very enjoyable and adventures day at the Air Show but a very LONG DAY. Next time we will check out the Museums.

Life can be precious

2009-06-04T16:24:00.006-06:00

On a friends blog...she talked about a movie trailer called Precious. Goto http://www.tylerperry.com/, then click on movies. This trailer talks about a young girl who gets abused by her mom and put down with words that she is worthless and no good. She doesn't feel that anyone loves her.

Why do some parents do this to their children?

Life is short.

Life is hard.

Life is painful.

Life is PRECIOUS.

This is not part of Heavenly Fathers plan. We should love our children and teach them the gosple. My mom told me when we are discipline are children we need to come back with LOVE.

A few weeks ago, I had to give a talk in Church. I talked about Arming our children with the gospel. We need to make our family unit stronger and prepared. I came across some quotes in some reading I have been doing. I have been reading different books to make our family stronger and to teach the gospel to my two children. LOve jumps out in many of our prophets talks not hatered or belittling our children. Here are a few quotes I used in my talk.

President Ezra Taft Benson said in a crowd of over eight thousand five hundred seminary and institute students, “Make no mistake about it, you are a marked generation….There has never been more expected of the faithful in such a short period of time than there is of us….Never before on the face of the earth have the forces of evil and the forces of good been so well organized.”

We need to create the climate in our home by being an example, teaching our children the gospel and obedience. We have tools that are there to help us...FHE, PRAYER, SCRIPTURES AND OUR LEADERS.

Elder L. Tom Perry said, “The most important inner quality you can instill in a child is faith in God; the most important action a child can learn is obedience; the most powerful tool you have which to teach a child is love.”

Another quote...

President Joseph Fielding Smith gave us this instruction: “The family is the most important organization in time or in eternity…..Love each other with all your hearts. Keep the moral law and live the gospel. Bring up your children in light and truth; teach them the saving truths of the gospel; and make your home a heaven on earth, a place where the Spirit of the Lord may dwell and where righteousness may be enthroned in the heart of each member.”

We need to make our home a Heaven on Earth. We need to love our children and teach them so they can become responsible adults and strong in the gospel. These are the times, even the movies are showing negative, heart breaking, and the distruction of Family. It is sad that some children have to go home and it is HELL not a Heaven on Earth. We need to bring LOVE into our homes and teach our children with LOVE about the gospel. Our families need to be even stronger.

Shhh...It's a Surprise!

2009-06-04T16:04:00.003-06:00

I am so excited to Surprise Ryan and Lindsay. I need to share it with someone...So I figure why not blog it. But this is on the download...HUSH, HUSH, HUSH! They do not know about this and will not know about this until we get there.

We are taking Ryan and Lindsay to see Stadium of Fire, down in Provo this year for 4th of July. Ryan and Lindsay just love the Jonas Brothers.

Last year, Uncle Drew took 4 year old Lindsay to her first concert Hannah Montana. Ryan was so BUM. Then Ryan heard Jonas Brothers were having a concert just weeks after at the E Center...but it was too late to get tickets.

Before having Kids, Dan and I loved going to one or two concerts a year. This is going to be so Fun to share this experience with them.

Will blog more on this later, until then....sShhhhh!

Dancing Moose 1K marathon

2009-05-31T11:03:00.020-06:00

Lindsay was excited to hear her school was having a 1K marathon. She was going to run and win the race. She was looking forward to getting in shape. Lindsay and I were counting down the days until the marathon. We did little walks here and there. We were eating lots of good and health food. She was in training.

Is Lindsay going to RUN, WALK, OR PIGGY BACK RIDE?

The day final came...May 30, 2009!
Runner are you READY!

On your Mark, get set, GO!

Wait a minute!
That is Ryan in the blue shorts and blue cap running. He is passing everyone up. Even his sister Lindsay.

He was not suppose to run in this race. He was getting over from being sick. He had yesterday a 102 fever, a bad headache and cold. He was told he had to sit this one out. He can only observe and support his sister.

There goes Lindsay...RUN LINDSAY....Oops and then there goes Lindsay. The first runner down with a scraped knee.

I picked her up and carried Lindsay for a little while. I was telling her it will be ok. Let's brush it off and finish the race. She was done. Running was not her favorite thing anymore. This is the "WORST DAY EVER!" I told her it is not the end of the world. The day is not over and she can change the outcome to make it her "BEST DAY EVER!"

I finally got Lindsay to start walking on her own. She was still upset and complaining she didn't want to do this anymore. She has no chance of winning. She was to far behind. She started to cry more when she saw her brother already coming back.

Ryan was walking. He was coughing and did not sound good. When I asked him how he felt, he said he didn't feel good. I told him just to walk it off or sit down. He couldn't sit down. Why? He just need to catch his breath and he can't let that little kid pass him up and beat him. He then started to run again.

Lindsay was back to complaining again. Her brother was going to beat her. She kept on walking and complaining. I finally told her we made it half way and now we are turning around to head back to the finish line. Yeah! Keep going Lindsay we are now more than half way done.

I told Lindsay, I can see the FINISH LINE. Another lady walking beside me told me, "Your daughter already took off and left you behind."

There she goes...still running toward the FINISH LINE. I guess it is just me, left behind.

And as I approach the FINISH LINE....here awaits my two children. They are not waiting to Cheer me on! Ryan and Lindsay both said, "Mom your slow. We beat you."

Now it's time to evaluate Lindsay's injury. She did scrape her knee up, but it's not that bad. Lindsay said, her knee will feel better with a little kiss and a band aid. She got the kiss, but I didn't have a band aid in hand. The bandaid was eventually forgot.

All eyes went directly to the CLIMBING WALL!

Lindsay is such a good climber. She said, "Too hard, she had fun coming down. It was like a swing." I asked if she wanted to go again. She wanted to try and go higher. This way it would be more fun to swing down.

Ryan made it to the top. He was so excited he let go. He screamed coming down, "I did it!" He was so excited. He told me, "that was fun, let's do it again." We did it again, but this time he didn't make it to the top. He lost his footing and came down. He still thought it was COOL!

We had a picnic lunch, music, climbing wall, face painting and lots of different playgrounds to play on. We ended our stay with a little face painting. Ryan had a soccer ball and Lindsay had a butterfly. They both had lots of fun. Now it is time to get home and rest. Especially Mr. Ryan.

Lindsay finished the race even though she had fallen down at the beginning. She ran, walked and was carried. Ryan finished the race too! My kids didn't win the race. But it was all worth it! In the end all the kids were WINNERS!!!

I'm a Graduate!

2009-05-31T09:35:00.011-06:00

"May 29, 2009 Preschool Graduation"

Lindsay is so excited to graduate from Preschool. She has been attending Dancing Moose Montessori since January 2008. She is sad to leave her "baby school and friends." She is excited to go to her "Big Girl school and make new friends." She will start this next school term in late July as a Kindergartner.

Ryan and I attended Lindsay Preschool Graduation. Lindsay was so excited to wear her cap and gown. The Preschool Graduates sang to us songs they have learned. Then the director gave a little speech and read a poem.

***************************************************

To whom it may concern:

I know numbers, I know shapes, Know that purple stands for grapes. I know red, and white and blue, I know green and yellow, too. I've made friends, know how to share. What is wrong and what is fair. Know what policeman and mayors do. Fireman and nurses too. I'm an artist, I can paint. I try hard not to say ain't. I have rhythm. I know sounds. I've had ups, and I've had downs. I've been quiet. I have giggled. I've sat still. At times I've wiggled...worked all year for this degree. There now, aren't you proud of me?

THE GRADUATE
***************************************************

As the director called each child up; she read what they wanted to be when they "GREW UP." Some children wanted to be teachers, policeman, fireman, princesses, speed racer, doctors, paleontologist and were very sincere about what they wanted to be. Others were sincere too! But it just sound really FUNNY!

A little boy wanted to be a singer at first but then become a famous Disco Dancer.

A little girl wanted to become a princess riding a unicorn in a sparkled dress.

A little girl wanted to be NORMAL.

A little boy wanted to become a Dad and then a really OLD MAN.

A little boy wanted to be come a contractor so he can destroy his friends house.

And last but not least...a little boy wanted a miniature train farm, so he can build miniature trains, since this world does not have them.

Do you see why some of these were FUNNY?

And then Lindsay's name was called. Lindsay wanted to be a Queen. Not a Princess like all the other girls but a Queen. I could not believe this is what she wanted to be. Her teacher told me, she wanted to be the Queen so she can be the boss just like her Mom! Now that is funny.

I guess I am BOSSY! But who didn't know that already. LOL!

She was sad because they didn't tell everyone what she wanted to be. She wanted to be the Queen, so she can rule the World and be the boss just like me. They only told people she just wanted to be the Queen. But her point was to be the Boss. I had to find a place to laugh. Lindsay was serious. I didn't want to laugh in her face. She is my little Drama Queen and little Miss Diva.

I told Lindsay that Dr. Joyce's microphone had problems because of the wind. She said it, we just could not hear her very well. She was fine with that answer.

I can't wait and neither can Lindsay for her start her new adventure in Kindergarten.
Congratulations Lindsay for your accomplishment!

Tooth Fairy, Tooth Fairy I've lost my tooth!

2009-05-25T10:55:00.000-06:00

I was so excited. On May 24, 2009, I lost my very first tooth. I was scared at first. My mom was trying to help me. It really hurt to wiggle. I had my two bottom teeth already coming in and pushing on my baby teeth. I am not a baby anymore. I finally wiggled and wiggled my first tooth out.

Now I can call the tooth fairy to come to my house. My mom made me jump up and down and scream as loud as I can for the Tooth Fairy to come to my house. Did you know, she came to my house and gave me lots of coins and left me a note.

Here is a picture of me and with a missing tooth. I look silly.

Then a week later my other tooth came out. Uncle Drew helped me this time. He tickled me to make me forget about the pain. It was fun. I got to call the tooth fairy again. She brought me more money. I am so excited to have lots, and lots of money.

I woke up the next morning and my holes from my missing teeth are gone. My other teeth moved in. It is funny to lose my teeth and they grow back.

From Lindsay

Happy Mother's Day!

2009-05-09T17:32:00.005-06:00

This has been a wonderful Mother's Day weekend. Let's start with Friday. It was the first Friday in sometime I had the day to myself. Ryan and Lindsay were in school. My husband's work started their Overtime for the summer. I had 4 hours, that is right 4 hours to myself.

Once the breakfast dishes and a load of my laundry were done. It was ME TIME! Everything else can wait until the kids got home or do on another day. What was I going to do? I could have a pedicure, massage, sleep, or I can do window shopping. Ok it wouldn't be window shopping; I could never just window shop.

I enjoyed the quiet time soaking in my big tub, watching a Nora Roberts movie, and had a nap.

It was nice to have me time; which put me in a good mood. Ryan then comes home from school all excited with what he has for me for Mother's Day. I told him it is not Mother's Day until Sunday. Then Lindsay comes home from school all excited with what she has for me for Mother's Day. I told her the same thing; it is not Mother's Day until Sunday.

As I started to make Dinner, the kids were outside playing. I changed my mind on what I was making for Dinner. I made Sweet and Sour chicken from scratch. Something different for a change. Lindsay and Ryan were done playing. The first thing they said; Wow! It smells good in here. Your the best cook ever. Watcha making.

My hubby came home from work and took the kids to the Mall; while I finished up with Dinner. Ryan and Lindsay were so excited. Lindsay told Dad she wanted to buy me all this stuff. Dad told her we are going to get a few items. She was sad until they walked in to a few stores. Ryan could careless until the last store. He was excited to be in a store full of chocolotes and they were passing out samples. Once they got home they wanted me to open everything up. I told them, it is not Mother's Day until Sunday. Everything was wrapped up nicely with the name of the stores...but I am excited for the box of See's chocolate and the little box from Kay jewelry.

Lindsay and Ryan excitement was still very HIGH to open something. Maybe it was the chocolate suckers they had at the mall. Anyways, I told them...we can have a sneak peek of Mother's Day by them bring in their gifts they did at school.

Ryan made a card for me and gave me a coupon book. He was so excited until...I started to read all the coupons of jobs he can do for me. He decided that was a mistake to give to me. Lindsay teacher helped her fill in the blanks of a letter and I got some melted chocolates. Both kids enjoyed helping me eat the melted chocolates. Lindsay told her teacher my mom's name is Lindsay too! I know everything. My favorite colors are PINK and CHOCOLATE. My favorite hobby is SLEEPING.

Friday was a nice start into Mother's Day.

This morning was nice. I was able to sleep in until about 8:30am. I found Ryan and Lindsay in my bed with the TV on at a low volume and the channel on 33 for Disney cartoons. My two kids now know how to turn the TV on and they recognize the number 33 is for Disney. Wow! Downstairs the TV was also on and on the channel 33. The downstairs TV was turned on by Dad just before he left for work.

The day began with a Mommy and Kids breakfast date at McDonalds. Then it was off to a doctor appointment for Ryan and then we had a few errands to do. I decided to have a family day doing yard work and cleaning house. My motivater was to redeem some of Ryan's coupons and one of the errands was to Walmart for them to pick out an a $4 item. This item they can have and only have once the jobs were done with no complaining. Ryan picked out a new SOCCER BALL and Lindsay picked out a PINK plastic golf bag with clubs and balls. I also picked up some books.

It worked! They did not complain and they worked together. Ryan and Lindsay picked up all the dog poop and helped me mow the lawn. Then it was on to the kitchen, and their bathroom. And the final job was going through their drawers full of clothes. We went through every item of clothes....keep, DI, trash, and recycle pile. And we divided up the clothes into summer and winter piles. They also got a bath and were excited to go out and play.

Saturday was another nice day leading up to Mother's Day.
I am starting to like Mother's Day! It really should be a weekend event.

The best part of being a mom is reading to my children. I told them I enjoy cuddling up with them and reading a story. I enjoyed it when my mom read to me and I want them to have a memory of me being their mom and reading to them too. I gave my children new books as a gift from me to them on this Mother's Day. Ryan and Lindsay were excited to have new books.

Tomorrow is MOTHER'S DAY! I am excited to really enjoy MOTHER'S DAY this year. And that is because my kids are excited to really celebrate it with me. I am enjoying all the hugs and being told they love me, your the best Mom, and my favorite thank you for being my mom. (pause for crying)

My two children have only been in my home since the fall of 2006 and have come a long way. We went through tough times after the adoption in 2007. I can now say I have no regret. I am proud to be their MOM; through all the good and bad.

I want to wish all the Mother's out their Happy Mother's Day. And Thank you for sharing your advice with me. It was very helpful as a new mom with two children; now 5 and 7 years old.

For all of you mom's who have not read this book...The 5 love languages of children. It is a must read. This was the book that helped turn things around for our family. We were able to bond with our children. This book was referred to us by a friend.

I wished this was a book the Therpist had suggested to us to read first before all the other books. This was the most important book. We would have been able to strengthen our bond with our children from the very beginning and be able to move forward as a family.

Lots of Love this Mother's Day,

Melissa

Saturday Night BBQ

2009-04-11T23:27:00.000-06:00

If you had a brand new home and good size backyard, would you have a BBQ? Of course you would. Now let's look at it a different way. Your brand new home has light color carpet, stairs, piano, fire pit,no furniture and a backyard full of dirt. Would you have a BBQ and invite your family over with their kids? I am thinking NOT.

Josh and Loretta are expecting their first child. We are very thankful for the hospitality and opening up their home and being Host and Hostess. We are hoping we have not scared them away from having anymore kids or maybe we have paved the way of what to be prepared for in years to come.

Josh and Loretta's home was a dream come true for all kids. Plenty of room to run around and get dirty. The kids had a wonderful time. Of course, Ryan heard Uncle Josh had a Ball. Then his focus was the Ball. Before the rules were explained, Ryan already kicked the ball at the sliding glass door. Thank goodness, no windows broken.

All the girls were running around up the stairs and to the loft. Then someone found Loretta's piano and all the kids were drawn to playing the piano. Now, Eva and Lindsay were drawn to the fire pit and the torches. Yes, they were lite. No one got hurt. An adult had to be outside all the time.

Josh's BBQ just would not lite. No problem, move to plan B, the oven. Now this is where the discussion of a double oven would have came very valuable. Even though it took longer to get dinner going. I did not hear any of the kids crying they were hungry. The were to occupied with having fun. The food was excellent.

Darkness came and the party for the kids went outside to the fire pit for smore's. It was a nice evening to hang outside and a few still lingered inside for a nice conversation.

Thank you Josh and Loretta. Please remember the good times as you find little finger prints not coming off or foot prints soled in the carpet. Remember paint does wonders for covering walls and besides that plan of replacing the carpet may come a little sooner than later.

From Collages

Easter Egg Hunt

2009-04-11T17:21:00.000-06:00

Saturday morning started off with Breakfast at Fedderman's Camp. Then after Breakfast kids can run around and play. They had horses, zip line, play ground and plenty of places for them to hide eggs. The kids enjoyed the Easter Egg Hunt.

Six Flags Discovery Kingdom

2009-04-10T23:19:00.000-06:00

It is Spring Break in Utah. Were do we go, of course, California to see Grandma, Grandpa and cousins. Ryan and Lindsay were excited to goto Six Flags with Grandma and Grandpa. They wish all their cousins could have gone to, but they had work and school. Bum deal.

We hoped for a beautiful day, but we did get rained on. The kids enjoyed seeing all the shows or events for the whale, seals, dolphins, sting rays, sharks and pengins. They were bum they could not see all the other events with the elephants, tigers or other wildlife. We were not able to find the path to get to them. Their map was not a very good map.

The rides were either to small or too big for Ryan and Lindsay to ride. They were bum again. We tried to make it a fun day. Ryan and Lindsay kept saying it was their bestest day ever or their worst day ever depending on what happened.

Lindsay and Ryan enjoyed being up close to the Dolphins and learning to give them commands, feeding the seals, and watching the seals and killer whale perform. The kids did get to go on a swing and the log ride a few times. Lindsay liked the log ride the first few times, but then she got wet and it was raining. Ryan loved it and wanted to keep going. Especially, since no one was in line, they were letting continue ride it over and over again.

From 04/10/09 family trip to Six Flags

We finally found a roller coaster that Ryan can ride on. The Tony Hawk Big Spin. As we got closer, Lindsay was able to ride it too. Both Ryan and Lindsay were excited. Lindsay is all strapped in and Ready to go. Her hands up high and scream this is COOL. Once it dropped and started to spin. She was ready to get off. Ryan was still screaming, this is Sweet.

Six Flags was ok. I would rather go to Disneyland, San Diego Zoo and Sea World, since there are more for are kids to do and enjoy. Maybe next time.

Ryan and Lindsay did have a wonderful time spending with their Grandma and Grandpa. They love California and all the different things they get to do or experience. Ryan said it would be more fun if all the cousins could have been their with us too.

From Collages

We can't forget the Beach!

2009-04-09T17:16:00.001-06:00

Ryan and Lindsay all the way from Utah to Calfornia, kept telling us we can't forget the beach. We decided to take them to Baker Beach. For anyone who has been to California knows there are miles and miles of beaches. Not all of California Beaches are the same especially when you are in Northern California.

From Easter2009

Now check out that view. We had the whole beach to ourselves. Maybe, part is because of the weather. Oh well, it was a nice day to spend together.

From Easter2009

Ryan and Lindsay couldn't believe we were still in California, because this was not the same beach they went to in Southern California.

From Easter2009

We also had the chance to go on the Golden Gate Bridge. It started out to be an oops we missed our turn off. Ryan and Lindsay loved going over all the bridges. We stopped to walk on the Golden Gate Bridge, but Ryan and Lindsay were happy with how far they were already on the bridge, but ready to go to the beach.

From Easter2009

Ryan's own scrapbook

2009-03-29T18:45:00.002-06:00

I finally finished Ryan's little book. His seemed a little harder than Lindsay. I still used a template, but had to make adjustments. I used as Ryan's headliner, just a part of the opener from Star Wars. It was not easy. I am just waiting for it to be proof read and then it is off to the printers.

I haven't forgotten our Family blog!

2009-03-23T14:27:00.001-06:00

Hello Friends and Family, I really haven't forgotton our family blog. I have just been busy with other projects. My kids don't have baby books to look at when they were little. I wanted to make them their own special book. I am also taken all of last years blog post and putting them in an album book too. It is just taken a little more time then I expected. Once I am done, then I will start to catch up on our family blog with some new post.

Look what I did!

2009-02-20T09:00:00.000-07:00

I did my first Heritage Maker scrapbook. I am so proud of myself. Lindsay is excited to have a scrapbook all about her. As soon as I am done with Ryan's scrapbook I will post it.

I had so much fun. Yeah me!!!

Great Job Kathyrn!

2009-02-02T04:31:00.004-07:00

I just wanted to say "Great Job" Kathyrn for an awesome job she did in putting together our family Camping Trip. This is a scrapbook she did online.

Ryan and Lindsay were excited to have a book about our camping trip. Yeah, Aunt Kathryn for being so creative. I am happy too. This is one less book of memories for me to scrapbook.

I have looked at and tried different online services to do scrapbooking online. This is one that looks like someone worked really hard to scrapbook. Kathryn, we need to hook up. I will love to do the kids a book or two.

Tagged

2009-02-01T10:15:00.002-07:00

Ok - I saw this on a few friends blogged and it had the following only about her. So I guess I will do the same and add it about me. If you are reading this...now consider yourself tagged.

5 THINGS I WAS DOING 10 YEARS AGO:
1. Living the newlywed life of 1 1/2 years....double income, no kids.
2. I worked for Zions Bank as the Merchant Teller.
3. Went from zero debit to In debit A LOT due to Medical Bills from Dan's seizure the year before.
4. Not liking being ALONE....because my husband started his new job at Coca Cola and worked nights. I only saw him on his days off or not at all during the summer months.
5. I was ready and wanted to have a Baby.

5THINGS ON MY TO DO LIST:
1. Clean, organize and get rid of the extra clutter and crap in our house.
2. Sleep
3. Lose weight and excercise
4. Go back to school.
5. More sleep.

5 SNACKS I ENJOY:
1. Lemon Bars
2. Reese's Peanut Butter Cups
3. Pretzel's dipped in white chocolate or milk chocolate
4. Fruit especially Strawberries during strawberry season
5. Chips and homemade salsa ranch

5 THINGS I WOULD DO WITH A BILLION DOLLARS :
1. Both Dan and I quiting our jobs, save some money and travel.
2. Buy the house of our dreams fully furnished and closer to family out of the state of Utah.
3. Own a second or third home for vacation in Hawaii or Italy.
4. Maybe not be so selfish and give some money to family to enjoy.
5. Own Sedo's or a House boat to have fun on the water.

3 HABITS:
1. I talk LOUD.
2. I love to Shop. See why I need the Billion Dollars.
3. Tell my husband, "I love you " every morning when I get home from work and he is a sleep.

5 PLACES I'VE LIVED:
I moved around a lot...but not too far and not too exciting.
1. I lived with my parents in Riverside, California.
2. In the Avenues with Roommates Salt Lake City, Utah.
3. In Old Farm Murray, UT with my Husband.
4. In our House on Asplund Cir WVC, Utah.
5. In Buena Park, California until I was 5 years old.

5 JOBS I'VE HAVED:
1. Newspaper Carrier
2. Golden Spoon
3. Nordstroms
4. Zions Bank
5. Discover Card

Happy 37th Birthday Dan!

2009-01-30T22:22:00.002-07:00

January 31st, 1972

Dan is a wonderful cook, handy man, house keeper, landscaper, dog walker, husband, father, friend and Eternal companion. He always makes me laugh. I just have to watch out sometimes when he plays his practical jokes. He is a very loving man and has a lot of patience. Believe it or not, he has me on a pedal stool and treats me as a Queen. He knows me the Best.
My husband is an OLD MAN! His bones are already aching and he is always complaining about the new gray hairs he is finding and the new places hair can grow. Just kidding my love. Ha, Ha, Ha!

Dan was a cute and happy baby. As he gets older, he gets even better looking with age. He has beautiful, and honest eyes. The crows feet around his eyes just means he is still always smiling.

These are a few photos of my husband when he was a little boy. Doesn't he look like Ralph minus the glasses from the Christmas Story in this photo.

Happy Birthday Dan!

I love you very much. As we always tease each other and say....I you once I love you and if it ever changes I will let you know.

LOve you infinitely more,

MiSsy

P.S. Save this date January 31, 2012 on your calendars. I am planning Dan's Black 40th Birthday.

2009 Family Newsletter

2009-01-05T21:40:00.000-07:00

Our Second Family Newsletter

Ryan and Lindsay are happy to be in our family. But it is not easy to start a new path. They are trying to find their own way to attach. We are learning how we can help them to move forward. That has been our Theme all year.....Keep MOVING FORWARD

This year the Lindsay Clan had a family camping trip. Ryan and Lindsay enjoyed getting to know their Aunts, Uncles, Cousins and Grandparents. They can't believe they have a big family. Ryan kept asking why their can't be more Ryan's than Lindsay's. We just laugh and try to Explain. That doesn't seem to work. He even asked if Uncle Drew can become a Ryan.

Around the same time we were having this camping trip. We had family on Dan's side visiting from Indiana. They also headed for California. We were able to spend time with the Neely's in Utah and in California for a few days before they headed back home. We went to the Park, Beach, and the Aquarium. We has so much Fun!

Ryan and Lindsay were able to spend time with their Uncle Drew. Ryan was able to go hang out with him and go see Kong Fu Panda. Lindsay was excited to see Hannah Montana at the Stadium of Fire. Thanks Uncle Drew for spending time with the kids.

Dan hit his 10 years with Coca Cola. He has been working hard on all the Honey to Do List. He was proud of his painting projects of doing Lindsay and Ryan's room. Ryan loves his checker pattern wall and Lindsay loves her stripes.

As for myself, I have been sick every month. I can't seem to get rid of this sinus infection or catching whatever cold my kids brought home from friends or school. I didn't think being a mom would be this overwhelming and hard. I am on my 8th year with Discover Card as an Account Manager Specialist. I enjoy blogging, making quilts, reading a book for enjoyment, and finding the best in my children.

Ryan finished Kindergarten and started the 1st grade. He loves to play soccer, and excited he is learning to spell and read. He is like any normal Boy....full of Energy. Ryan was so excited to learn how to ride his bike without training wheels.

Lindsay loves ballet and pretending to be a Princess. She loves Hello Kitty and Princesses. She has been attending preschool. Somedays she loves it other days she just wants to stay at home with mommy.

Both kids love their new rooms they were so excited to choose there favorite colors. And to decorate them with things they like. They were happy to make it their own room.

Lindsay's room is Pink and Chocolate. She has two different pink stripes with chocolate doors and trim. She has Hello Kitty decals on her wall. She loves her new Hello Kitty's and her Hello Kitty comfortor. We are still finishing up the decorations in her room. She is looking forward to the brown letters spelling out her name on her wall, and her decorated mirror. The theme in her room is Hello Kitty.

Ryan's room is Blue and Chocolate. He has two different blue squares all over his wall making it a checker pattern on his wall with chocolate doors and trim. He has Transformer decals on his wall. He loves Transformers. He also has Transformer comforter. The theme in his room is Transformers. He is waiting for his Red letter to go his wall spelling out his name.

As we go through old photos...we can't believe how much they have grown. We are looking forward to another year to continue to move forward as a Family.

We send our best to each of you and wish everyone a Happy New Year.

Dan, Missy, Ryan and Lindsay.

Here is our decision on a Christmas Card.

2008-12-18T15:40:00.003-07:00

It will be late mailing them out. But that is okay. It will be going to mostly Family members and a few friends. It all depends on who's addresses I have. If you didn't get one, I am sorry. That is why I am posting this to our blog and facebook that way everyone can see it. We do wish everyone a Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year.

I will after the New Year post a Our 2nd annual Family Newsletter on the blog.

Should I or should I not do Christmas Cards this year????

2008-12-18T10:18:00.003-07:00

I have been a tried and not feeling to Hot,OLD lady this year. I don't know how other Mom's do it with more than two kids. I am proud to say my Christmas shopping for my little family was done before Halloween and wrapped mid November. But when it comes to Christmas cards...I haven't done them. I have been trying to decide on a photo card, card with no photo, blog newsletter, no cards, cards or just a photo of the dogs.

Now I am behind. Dan already started to make and pass out cookies to his families he Home Teaches without a card. Thank goodness I didn't have to make the cookies, too. That's Dan's job. But as his wife, I am embarrassed. Dan passed out cookies in sandwich bags. Good way to improvise.

Anyways, here are a few photos of the kids in their Christmas outfits around the tree. If you don't get a card. I am sorry and please accept my apology. I just am to OLD and tired to keep up this Holiday Season.

Lindsay's Ballet Recital 2008

2008-12-18T09:03:00.009-07:00

Lindsay is in her second year of Ballet. She had her first recital yesterday, December 17, 2008. She was excited to have a new teacher this year. She had new friends and few friends from last year in her class. She was excited to see Aurora and Mindi.

This years class is bigger than last years class. Her custom this year is florescent lime green and purple. She was excited to be on state again. Lindsay was excited to see her Aunt Debbie, cousin Ellie, Aunt Marie and Aurora's family at the recital to see her and Aurora perform.

Here is a photo of Lindsay and Aurora waiting their turn to go on stage. And quick photo of Ellie, Aurora, and Lindsay before the girls get distracted with other pretty customs. Oops, to late...not quick enough....have the backs of their heads or doing something else. Oh, well.

A little brief family History: Ellie is Lindsay and Aurora's cousin, since Aunt Debbie married Brenda's brother Brett. Brenda is Aurora's mom and Lindsay's ballet teacher from last year. Funny huh? Debbie was the one who suggested Lindsay take ballet class from Brenda. It has been wonderful getting to know Brenda and Aurora.

Lindsay is excited to have her ballet performance on our family blog. She is very proud to not be "Shy." Like she would ever be shy. She is a Miss Diva.

Lindsay is the one on the very end. And Aurora is five down from Lindsay. Sorry, not the best focus job on the video...let's blame it on the lights and being rushed.

Christmas Lights!

2008-12-15T09:49:00.011-07:00

We enjoy Christmas Lights! Sometimes when we are driving at night and we see a neighborhood with ligts. We seem to be taking a detour to look at all the pretty lights. The last few years we made it a tradition to go downtown to see the Christmas Lights at Temple Square.

This is the best way to teach the children about our Savior. And how Christmas is not all about Santa. It is about the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ. We saw a little video from Luke II; which showed a clip about the birth of Savior.

Ryan and Lindsay love the Temple. Every time they see a Temple, they would say, "We've been there." or "Can we go to the Temple together as a Family, again?" or "Look I see another Temple." Each time a different comment.

Of course, no family outing is complete without pictures. Here are some picture of our trip to the Temple.
We wish everyone a "Merry Christmas and Happy New Year" this holiday season.

Ryan's 1st grade Class Project!

2008-12-02T16:36:00.005-07:00

Hola this is Ryan. Welcome to my family blog. We are learning all about family customs and celebrations in our class. We don't have a traditional dress or dance. My parents are not from a far, far, far away land. My Mom and Dad are born and raised in the good ole' USA.

Looking at all the things we do it revolves around family and church.

In my family we celebrate all the Holidays. Out of all the Holidays Christmas is my favorite. On Christmas day after all the gifts are open we like to go as a family to see a movie. What is funny; my cousins will go and see the same movie on Christmas day and they live in another state....California.

For Christmas we have for dinner Turkey or Ham, homemade cream corn, mash potatoes, salad, rolls, stuffing and of course the yummy desserts. Everyone looks forward to the homemade cream corn. It is our families favorite.

We do a gift exchange with another family on both my parents side. On my dad's side they have a memory question they have to answer. Kinda like a remember when we were younger. At Christmas we will get everyone's memory and laugh. We have a book with the last 9 years of funny memories of my dad's family as a child.

We like to travel to California at least once a year. We have lots of fun with my Aunts, Uncles, Grandparents (Lo Lo and Lola), and cousins. We have gone to the beach, camping, museums, zoos, and of course Disneyland.

Our family has a tradition; they take lots of photos and keeping a journal for us....Genelogy. As you can see my family has a blog about our life as a family together for the last year. Our blog address is twosillymonkeys.blogspot.com, funny huh? My mom thinks my sister and I are silly monkeys.

The top 10 list about my family:

10. They are all silly monkeys and talk funny. My Aunt and Uncles speak different language because they served a Mission in another country. My other Aunt is from Mexico. We like her tradition of having a Pinata for Birthdays. Yeah for Pinatas and all the goodies inside.

9. Traveling to California to visit family and do something fun like Disneyland. Coming Disneyland for 2009.

8. We have a fun time playing in the snow around Christmas time.

7. Going to the movies on Christmas, and Thanksgiving.

6. We eat funny foods; like worms in the mud when we go camping. (oreos, chocolate pudding and gummy worms....Yummy, yummy in my tummy.)

5. I love seeing my Lo Lo (grandpa) and Lola (grandma). They travel to see us during the Christmas season. Lo Lo and Lola; when it snows, I will save the snow for our traditional snowman making.

4. I enjoy learn a little bit of Spanish or Cebuano from my Uncles and Aunts. I think they are funny when they all use a different dialogue. They like to tease us.

3. Summer vacations; amusement parks, pools, parks, camping, Utah Arts Festival, sporting events..Yeah Soccer...etc. I like having fun, fun, fun with my family.

2. We set the tree up as a family, decorate, sing songs, and star lights on the outside of our house. My mom makes homemade goodies to eat while we decorate. This Friday we will be doing our family decorating for Christmas.

1. I can't wait until Christmas has come to open up all my gifts. Because...my birthday is next and I will get to open more gifts from my family. LOL!

Thank you, for taken a moment to look at my family blog. We have lots of fun. I have attached some of my favorite photos.

Pretty Sweetie.

Signing off Ryan

Happy 35th Birthday

2008-11-30T16:44:00.002-07:00

Today is my Birthday, November 30! Hey, it is my birthday and I chose to be lazy and waste my day the way I wanted to; Relaxing! Ok, it helps to have my Birthday on a Sunday.

I am now Thirty-Five years old. The OLD part, I wish I didn't have to feel. Thirty-Five is another milestone in my life. I am happy that I am old enough to know something, but still young enough to enjoy my life.

I had a good 35 years, I still wish I can look and feel 23 again. But I know that is not going to happen in this life time. Hopefully, in the next life. I have a lot of good memories, some sad memories and a few memories I wish I didn't have. That is all part of life. I choose to focus on all the good memories. I will have many new memories to come.

Top 10 list; This is one Birthday weekend I am not going to be able to forget.

10. Losing Lindsay in the Mall.
9. Lindsay telling everyone all weekend long it is my birthday and adding another year on each time. I think we ended at 45, when I told her I am not 45.
8. Lindsay and Ryan singing loud, "Happy Birthday!" all weekend long.
7. Ryan reminding me I am 30 years older than Lindsay.
6. Eating at the Cheesecake Factory for my Birthday and NOT being sung to. Thanks to the other Melissa being sung to at the table across from us.
5. Lindsay telling me I can have anything here at the mall, her treat. Then going up to Dan and asked him for his credit card.
4. Having my Birthday on a Sunday; means I can Relax.
3. Taking a nap and Lindsay quietly singing to me and cuddling with me.
2. Dan, Ryan and Lindsay cleaned the whole house while I was taking a long nap.
1. Dan made my favorite cake; Lemon Jello Cake.

Love,
Missy

We made it the rest is A Piece of Cake!

2008-11-23T20:03:00.006-07:00

On November 24, 2007 Dan and I were sealed to our two silly monkeys. We accepted the mission to survive together as a happy family. It has not been an easy year, but what family doesn't have their struggles or challenges. Our struggles and challenges just had a little bit of adjustment to figure out and of course dealing with Reactive Attachment Disorder.

We are excited to share our lives with two silly monkeys; Ryan and Lindsay and be a forever family. We want to Thank all of our family and friends who have been a wonderful support system for our family. It is nice to hear the phrase, "That is Normal."

I can't believe our silly monkeys have been with us for two years and officially one year as a family. They are excited to be in a big family with lots of cousins, Aunts, Uncles, and Grandparents. When our families get together; they have a blast with all their cousins. We can't believe it has been two years already.

Things are getting better and our family is slowly becoming a stable home for Ryan and Lindsay. Both kids are trying really hard to move forward and trust that we will not give up on them. This is another New Year for us to work even harder to over come any new or old challenges. We survived the 1st year; the rest is A Piece of Cake! Just kidding.

Enjoy the photos; of our day at he Temple a year ago. Wow, how they can grow up too fast.

Happy Halloween!!!

2008-11-01T19:52:00.008-06:00

Lindsay and Ryan have been excited about Halloween for months. Is it the Candy, or the Customes? Trick or Treating for Candy was in first, then coming in Second the Customes, and dead last Parties! They were happy to dress up and eat candy, candy, candy and more candy. Yeah for them. Not good for us.
It was not easy for them to only choose one custome. They wanted several customes. For Ryan he was choosing between the Hulk, Jedi, Iron Man, or Transformer? And for Lindsay she was choosing between Tinker Bell, Sleeping Beauty, Butterfly, Lady bug, or all the Princess dresses you can find? They finally chosen their costume. Lindsay decided to be Sleeping Beauty. Ryan wanted to be Iron Man. Candy is our worst enemy this time of year. Thank goodness for the Three Day Rule. That is Right! Candy is only good for Three Days and then we have to throw it out. That is right, again! Of course, we don't throw it all away. We give some away, hide some for later and Dan eats some too! We can't let it all go to waste. It is a visual for the kids and they don't hassel us for the Candy. They know it is gone. Our kids love to have a surprise later; when it is not expected. They don't realize it is from Halloween.

Ryan and Lindsay were excited to get tooth brushes, pencils, rings, teeth and eyeballs. Which makes it fun for them and less candy in their bags.

Oh My Uncle Josh!

2008-10-26T07:34:00.000-06:00

My brother JOsH decided to make a trip to Utah. Of course; to see our brother Andrew and attend a football game at BYU. We were just a bonus since we live here in Utah. Just Kidding...Uncle JOsh wanted to spend a little time too with his niece and nephew. Lindsay and Ryan were excited to camp out in the family room with Uncle JOsh.

The next morning JOsH, Andrew and Dan went out shooting the guns that Dad bought. According to the photos; they seem to enjoy shooting at Andrew's computer part or something. From there JOsh and Andrew headed off to a football game and to enjoy the rest of their time hanging out together. Dan came back home to get cleaned up for some other activities we had planned.

JOsh and Andrew ended up at our house on Sunday for a Family Dinner, chat, and a movie before JOsh's plane took off. We enjoyed having JOsh here. The kids enjoyed having both of their Uncles around. Next time JOsh bring Lorretta and Cali (kitty cat) with you.

JOsh and Andrew taught Ryan to say Oh my Uncle JOSh instead of Oh my ***. Which has been bugging me all week. Now Ryan is saying Oh my Uncle JOsh. I laugh at that phrase instead of getting upset when he used the other phrase. Instead of Oh my goodness, Oh my G**, it is now Oh my Uncle JOsh. Thank you Josh and Andrew.

LDS Prophets warn us of the dangers facing America

2008-10-24T06:52:00.002-06:00

This was on my friend's FaceBook. I thought this would be one I would want to have on my blog to share with others. On her FaceBook she says, this was in the April 2008 Priesthood session, President Monson mentioned political machinations. Not knowing what that meant I looked up the word and was stunned as I read the definition. This videos was inspired..."Last days."

I guess I will be looking that up too.

Happy 5th Birthday Lindsay!

2008-10-18T21:44:00.003-06:00

Happy Birthday Lindsay! Happy Birthday Lindsay!

Lindsay is now 5 years old. She loves Hello Kitty, Hannah Montana and dolls. Her favorite color is Pink & Chocolate. She loves to pretend she is reading. She reminds me of the little girl in Anne of Green Gables. This is one of her favorite books we read together. She is excited to be a part of a family with lots of cousins.

This year we kept the party low key and just have a family Birthday party for Lindsay which just the four of us. It was nice to not have to plan a birthday party. We had a nice dinner. Lindsay was excited to pick out her cake. Of course, she picked out the biggest cake at Costco. We had cake that lasted over a week. She enjoyed blowing out her candles and opening her gifts.

The Top 10 List: Things we love about Lindsay:

10. Always volunteers to help clean someone else's house and not her own.
9. Loves to dress up as a Princess with her friend London.
8. Loves all the attention on her.
7. Her excitement when she sees a Princess or Hello Kitty Character.
6. Her excitement to do something as a Family.
5. Her hugs, kisses and I love you comes in a package.
4. Telling her remember when stories; whether for real or fake.
3. Her eyes light up when she smiles.
2. Loves to cuddle with Mommy Missy and tells me, "You are my mommy, I had missed you in my other home."

And the number 1 reason we love about Lindsay....

1. The exitement she had when we told her we are going to adopted her in to our family. How she really wanted to be apart of this family. From her name....all the way until the day we were married (sealed) as a family. I love hearing Lindsay tell people we are a family because we are married in the Temple. We are happy to have Lindsay as our daughter.

Love Mommy Missy, Daddy Dan, and brother Ryan.

Happy Birthday Lindsay! Happy Birthday Lindsay!

Happy 11th Anniversary!

2008-10-12T22:31:00.003-06:00

October 11th, 2008 was our 11th Wedding Anniversary. What good memories of our actually Wedding Day! Dan was telling me how my brothers were trying to tell him..."Last chance to get out."... "She is your problem once you get married."..."We like you Dan, are you really sure about this." I was cool and claim; while everyone was running around. Until the little old lady asked if I need to use the ladies room before going to the brides room. I ended up throwing up and crying. Ahh... precious memories!

Dan and I have not really celebrated our anniversary for the last 2 years. Our 9th anniversary we were able to take the kids out to dinner from the Christmas box. Then on our 10th anniversary we had a party to celebrate the adoption of our children. Those two years skipped on by. We decided we were going to go away for a whole weekend, just us and no kids.

Our friends were kind enough to take care of our kids and our dogs for the weekend. Dan and I were excited to get away with no kids. We started to plan our weekend. Should we go to Park City for three days. They always have something going on. Or get away to the Anniversary Inn? Maybe take a cruise, or a trip out of Utah? Where should we go?

Did that happen? It seems something always happened. Then with the kids school and last soccer game. I just couldn't put all that on my friend. And on top of all that I was sick at the beginning of the week with an eye infection and a sinus infection. I did not feel up to traveling.

We decided to just send the kids overnight to our friends on Saturday into Sunday. This way Lindsay will be taking and picked up from school by us. She was going through an attachment phase we didn't want to miss. She was trying to and wanted to attach to Dan. We also did not miss Ryan's last soccer game. He really wanted all of us at this last game. How can you say, "No."

We took the children out on a Family Night together on Friday Night. Dan and I decided surprising the kids leaves little for disappointment for everyone. We packed the kids PJ sandwiches, and apples to eat at the movies and watch Igor. This way we feel they had a little bit of a dinner before we take them out for ice cream after the movie. Ryan and Lindsay thought we were the coolest since we had Ice Cream before Dinner. They thought PJ sandwiches were just lunch. We had a nice dinner at Famous Dave's BBQ.

After Ryan's soccer game that ended early since a rain/snow storm came pouring down. We took them to our friends house. Lindsay kept asking if we were going to ever come back. Ryan said, "Good Bye see ya in a week." Our dogs stayed home with us.

That's Right; we stayed home. We took care of our Dogs. We decided to go out for lunch to The Cheese Factory....Yummy food! Brought home the left overs. Dan and I decided we were tried and would take a little nap with no interruption from kids. We LOVED our NAP. I guess you can say as you get older a NAP is a good thing. We were thinking of heading out and decided it was too COLD and a Storm was coming in. We enjoyed each others time.... alone...NO KIDS...together. OK! We were too LAZY to get out of a warm bed. Of course, Dan had to walk 5 feet into the kitchen to get our YUMMY leftovers and dessert.

Dan and I enjoyed 11 years together and we are looking forward to many more to come. Maybe next year we will really get away. I am thinking anything far, far, far away with no kids will be wonderful.

Yes on Prop 8

2008-10-09T12:32:00.004-06:00

This video clip has been emailed to us by other friends and family members. Dan and I decided it is important to add this video clip to our blog, just as others have done on their blog. It gives a good example of the consequences to our families if Prop 8 doesn't pass in California. Please go out and Vote this election. If you are not in California, please read your ballot and make sure this is not happening in your state.

This other video clip is also an inspiring message, of the importance of strengthen our Family not redefining Family. This clip touches on the importances of Life, Faith and Family.

Thanksgiving Point Farm Country

2008-10-02T16:43:00.002-06:00

Today was a nice day to take our kids to Thanksgiving Point to enjoy the Farm Country. Lindsay Ryan, and myself joined our friends Kari, Ronan, and Charley to enjoy some farm animals.

Ryan and Lindsay did not know about it. I sometimes like to keep things as a surprise. Ryan was asked to get up and get dressed in nice clothes. His response, "Why? Are we are going to go somewhere special." Lindsay response to Ryans reaction was "Yeah! Where are we going? Can we take snacks?" Lindsay and Ryan were excited for today.

I did not say where we are going. I explained to them we can bring one pack. This pack will only have a sweat shirt and a pair of shorts for each of them. Just in case it was a little chilly or if it gets hot. I will pack the travel cooler with our lunch. We don't need anything else. Where we are going is to enjoy something and have lunch. Then we will be back before Nap time. (The Nap time is more for me than my kids.)

Anyways, are friends showed up while I was still getting ready. Ronan and Charley told my kids we were going to the Farm. The look on my kids faces were priceless. This would have been a perfect picture of their expression of confusion. As if they were trying to put a puzzel together. Then it clicked! They were excited and jumping around. We are going to the farm with our friends.

My children found their back packs and started packing there bags. When I notice what they were doing...I wished my camera was near by to take the picture of their back packs. Just Imagine seeing photos of Ryan's Transformer bag filled with toys, sweat shirt and pants. Her Hello Kitty bag had shoes, underwear, hair brush, pants, sweat shirt and her Hello Kitty Doll. She was also asking me if I would get her lip gloss and jewelry. I told her we don't need all this stuff. Lindsay response, "I need my stuff since we are going far, far, far away and I don't know when I will be back." I explained to both kids we don't need all this stuff and packed just what we needed we were off.

Once we got out of the car Lindsay said, "What is that smell? It smells like poop!" As she makes this face and pinches her nose. (Again, I missed another camera moment.) They had goats, pigs, ducks, horses, chickens and cows. They also had horse carriage ride and a pony ride.

Inside the building they showed how milk was produced and had a cow they can milk. Not a real cow. They were facinated to milk this cow. Lindsay and Ryan kept asking, "Why is it ok to touch a cows private parts?" My kids are not quite; they are shouting at the top of their lungs.

Once we moved away from the cow and went outside....The kids were so excited to go on a pony ride. Lindsay wanted to ride the "PURPLE" horse and only the "PURPLE" horse. It took me a while to realize she wanted to ride the horse that had a purple bridel on. Ryan wanted to ride the "Biggest" horse. The horse Ryan was describing was a big horse but also wore the "Purple" bridal. So, instead of them riding at the same time they had to take turns.

I finally pulled out my camera since it had just enough battery time and started snapping some photos. Lindsay was watching Ryan ride the pony and started to yell "POOP, POOP, POOP. Mom look my purple is pooping while Ryan is riding it. Yak." I took a picture of Lindsay pointing and making a happy face. What is it with my kids and potty words?

Once the pony ride was done. They saw other people sitting down at the picnic tables and wanted to lunch. We planned this just perfectly around lunch time. After lunch the kids wanted to feed the ducks. And off they went to the pond. They also had a few buildings the kids can go in and out of. Nothing much since they were pretty empty. I as a parent enjoyed taking a picture of them behind bars at the jail house.

After a few hours...I hoped they will enjoy the trip and picnic. We did have a few melt downs. There were other things they wanted to do there, but was not part of what we were doing. The melt downs came when it was time to leave. I hoped maybe the drive home will make them fall asleep. Nope, only Charley and Myself were tried and ready for a nap.

Happy 1 year Family Anniversay and Forever to go!

2008-09-24T05:43:00.007-06:00

To Our Two Silly Monkeys: Ryan and Lindsay,

We love you, We love you and We love you.

We hope one day you will understand why Heavenly Father made us as a Family. I love reading and listening to the words from Michael McLean, "From God's Arms To my Arms To Yours," and words to "Yours." I know you guys like it too. Whether or not you know what it means. I hope the words to the song comforts you and puts a smile on your face.

Both your Dad and I, love to see you happy and enjoy being a kid. We love it, when you are excited to see us at your soccer game or ballet rehearsals.....The look on your face when you read the book all by yourself.....To hear you read a book you don't know the words to and try so hard to make it up.....To hear the words; Let's do something as a family....Anytime hugs & kisses....and of course, to hear I love you.

We love you both very much,
Remember we will be here Forever; You can count on us being their for the good, the bad and the ugly. That is right, you will never be able to get rid of us. You guys are stuck with us Old Folks to be.

Love, Mommy Missy & Daddy Dan

These first photos of our children before they came to our home October 13, 2006. How time flies and quickly children grow.

Enjoy a little of Micheal McLean

2008-09-24T05:40:00.000-06:00

"FROM GOD'S ARMS TO MY ARMS TO YOURS"

With so many wrong decisions in my past I'm not quite sure
If I can ever hope to trust my judgement anymore
BUT LATELY I'VE BEEN THINKING 'CAUSE IT'S ALL I'VE HAD TO DO
And in my heart I feel that I should give this child to you

chorus:
And maybe you can tell your baby
When you love him so, that he was loved before
By someone who delivered your son
From God's arms to my arms to yours

"YOURS"

You didn't give me your eyes
Or the color of your hair
I'VE CLIMED THE FAMILY TREE AND FOUND
There's no one like me there
Sometimes I've felt like an alien
That came from foreign shores
But look inside my heart you'll see

I'M YOURS.

It is a Beautiful Day to Remember a Friend

2008-09-03T23:44:00.001-06:00

It was a very long day but a good day. Our friend Nathan's funeral was held today. It was a beautiful service to remember our friend and his family. Nathan is a great man who thought of others and enjoyed serving others. There were several friends, and family there to pay their respect to a Good Man who loved his family, honored his priesthood and served his Heavenly Father while he was here on earth. He was a great example to all of us. He will be surely missed by everyone who loved him, but not forgotten. He will be remembered by all those who he touched and served. Now, it is our turn to take what we have seen and learned from Nathan; to serve others. We need to be strong and have Faith in our Heavenly Father's Plan of Salvation. Nathan thank you!

"In Memory of Nathan Von Niederhausern"

2008-08-29T14:15:00.000-06:00

The world has lost a Great man, Nathan Von Niederhausern. He will be missed and remember for all the great things he has done. He has been a great example to learn and follow. He has help and served other in need.

Dan and I mourn the loss of a dear friend, neighbor and member of our Family Ward. He will be sorely missed not just by us but everyone who knew him. We will remember the good times such as the laughter, block parties, skit shooting, cards, Halloween Parties, gatherings in front of someone's house just chatting away, lending an ear to listen, and the laughter of friends.

We will take from this the things we have learned and pass it on to the next generations. He will always be remembered. It is scary to see someone so young and have a young family go through this life experience. Hope is not all lost for we have learned all these years, starting in Primary, there is a life after this one. Heavenly Father has a plan for each and everyone of us.

This is for you Nathan. Thank you for everything.

Girl's day out!

2008-07-25T21:31:00.001-06:00

Girl's day out! It is time to hit the nail salon. Today was a day to enjoy getting a manicure and a pedicure. Eva and Lindsay were excited to join us gals at the nail salon. While Miriam, Mom and myself where getting our pedicure and manicure, the girls were exited to get their nails painted. Both Eva and Lindsay chose their nail polish, of course they keep coming across something better than before a better color, glitter, or hearts in clear polish. It was a tough decision before they each choose the one.

These girls were giggle and exited. They were moving around while they waited their turn. Will they be able to hold still long enough to let the nail polish dry? Believe it or not they made it through. At one point, I thought Lindsay was going to fall asleep. It was a tough call at the end. They started to copy each other's movement....just moments before the giggles start to come back. Yeah, there nails were dry enough.

It was a great day to spend time with each other and watch the girls giggle and enjoy girl's day out!

2008-07-25T21:09:00.000-06:00

Lindsay Clan goes camping together!

2008-07-24T23:55:00.000-06:00

2008-07-24T23:52:00.005-06:00

We are excited to spend time with family! This years trip to California was very eventful and fun. Ryan and Lindsay were excited to spend time with their new cousins and Grandparents. We went camping for 5 days in the Lake Mendocino area. It was wonderful to have all the kids together.

Mom made sure there was plenty of food and games. She did not want to hear anyone saying they were bored. We had bikes, scooters, jewelry making, canoe and lots of fun down at the lake. Of course, we all brought our lap tops and sometimes were found hiding in the tents or cars to sneak in a movie or play a game. The kids had fun finding lizards, dead fish, performing a scene from Emma's imagination, soccer, cards and chasing each other around. Just watching them made me tired.

Dan and I enjoy taking walks at night; while the kids were asleep or riding bikes around during the day; no kids. I had a little mishap and lost to a tree stump. My shin is all scratched up. My hands and ankles swelled so bad it hurt when it got to hot.

Dan and I had the chance to take the kids out on the canoe and had some one on one time with them. They talked about having so much fun and couldn't believe they have so many cousins. The kids were excited to have lots of food available to them. And asked why they still had to eat their Lunch. (They called everything Lunch.)

We even caught Lindsay and cousin Sophia in the food tent. Sophia got away but Lindsay got stuck in the zipper of the food tent. Uncle Bill did wonderful getting Lindsay to eat the foods she should eat first before eating all the snacks. He would pretend the food was telling Lindsay to stop eating them. Bill and his voices. He would even teach his daughter Sophia to rescue Lindsay from mean old mom; who was making Lindsay set down and eat her food til it was all gone. Sophia would tell Lindsay to run while she took Lindsay's plate and throw it away. All why mom was pretending not to look.

Ryan was so excited he was able to practice with Uncle Drew with soccer. He enjoyed his Hulk gloves chasing the girls with his gloves. He and his cousin Matthew were amazed with Uncle Mark's bike. Ryan was so excited when Uncle Drew invided all the nieces and he was the only nephew to stayed in his tent for one night. They stayed up telling scary stories and laughing. Ryan thought Uncle Drew was gross eating worms from the dirt. He then changed his mind when Uncle Drew gave everyone dirt and worms to eat for dessert. He decided eating worms was great. (Receipe for worms: gummie worms, chocolate pudding and crushed up oreos.)

We had a great time camping with my family. It sure was different. Noboday, got sick and no had to drive back living a throw up trail. It was a different camping experience than it was when I was younger. Mom and Dad, really wanted to make sure there was something for everyone

2008-07-24T23:51:00.000-06:00

Surprise get together with The Neely's!

2008-07-15T16:49:00.002-06:00

We were excited to receive a phone call from Uncle Richard. To our surprise, they were making a trip out to Utah and then to California. They were coming to see us in Utah before we went to California. We were able to hang with them again while we were in California. Talk about perfect timing.

Monday July 14th, we met up with them at Great Grandma Krause's for yummy stew and then we were off to the Park. Ryan and Lindsay were excited to go see Great Grandma Krause, it has been a year since they last saw her. Grandma Krause was happy to see her Grand children and Great Grand children. It was a nice visit and yummy stew!

At the park, the kids enjoyed laughing, climbing and swinging on the swing. Ryan loves the monkey bars, Lindsay loves the swing, Kyle enjoyed pushing his mom on the swing, and Kamae enjoyed the swing and slides. It was fun to see the kids be shy at first but then start to interact with each other.

This was a fun day to visit with our cousins from Indiana. This will not be the end. We will hook up with them again in California.

Good negotiator or bribes???

2008-07-11T09:50:00.008-06:00

Have you ever negotiated with your kids or bribe your kids to get what you want? Does it always work? Or does it seem to back fire?

We went this year to Kiddie Kandid to have the kids yearly photos taken. I wanted to have some cute photos with props, cute smiles and poses. This year the kids wanted to pose their way and would put up a fight to get what they wanted.

Ryan wanted to make all the funny faces and noises he can make. Lindsay wanted to put her hands and feet in a ballerina position. Both kids did not want to set next to each other. They would push and shove each other or knock down the curtain. Oh my...the crying. My kids can turn on and shut off the water works. I had to pull one kid off of the other and put them in time out. If they would have just smiled and do what we asked...we would have done. I was not happy they were acting this way. I told the photographer, "We are done." She said, "Lets keep trying." They didn't have another sitting for a while...lets try a few things.

My kids were brats. I do not like these behaviors. I did try to negotiate with them. They can do one picture of the pose or face they want. But then....they were smooth....if we can have some ice cream that would be nice.....sure, I did it and told them my terms. I took their breb. The were a little better, but still not the best only tollerable. Two hours later....we finally had six photos we liked. We have four pictures I liked and two pictures they wanted. During the previewing of the photos the kids decided to have a fight and start hitting each other.

I was angry with this behavior that they were doing. I told them we are done. They smiled and said good. Let's go get our ice cream over there. I said, "NO." The deal was to seat down, smile, and do as I ask all the way through the photos and viewing....until we walk out their doors. You just heard, "Yes, to the ice cream and missed out on how you can have ice cream." The look on their face was priceless. Neither negotation or breb worked. The kids cried all the way home.

Enjoy the photos. If you drag your mouse over the photos they will in large.

2008-07-11T09:49:00.000-06:00

Fun Day with Uncle Drew!

2008-07-08T10:04:00.006-06:00

The Fun Day with Uncle Drew; started when he had an extra ticket for Stadium of Fire at BYU featuring Hannah Montana. Drew asked if he can take his niece to see Hannah Montana. He knew she liked HM since she keeps singing, "Best of both Worlds," over and over.

Ryan's day with Uncle Drew was to see the movie Kung Fu Panda. Hang out and have some Ice Cream. Ryan was excited to get two new books one the Hulk and the other Kung Fu Panda.

2008-07-08T10:02:00.000-06:00

Utah Arts Festival

2008-06-28T21:48:00.000-06:00

When I first moved to Utah; I lived in the Avenues where they always had the Art Festival going on downtown every year. A friend I met here introduce me to the Utah Arts Festival. We enjoyed going when we could. Once we moved in our house it died down; we were doing more house projects or attending the Parade of Homes instead.

When Ryan and Lindsay first came to our home; we decided to find things they would enjoy. Now it is our little tradition to try and attend the Arts Festival each year. The kids enjoy the hands on kiddie corner and do arts & crafts, run through a maze, and play music. This year the kids were not that interested in the kiddie corner. The were more interested in all the little booths, face paintings, and musical numbers. I do have to say I was a little disappointed myself in the kiddie corner this year.

We always start off with taken Trax downtown. The kids love riding the train. We first hit the kiddie corner. Ryan and Lindsay did a few crafts. They were more intrigued with the instruments; banging on the bongos, and hitting the chimes. We found a booth with home made crafts for sale. Ryan and Lindsay both wanted something from the booth. I told them I was going to buy them a snack here. If they choose they can use the snack money for something at this booth instead of having a snack.

I was surprised they turned down a snack. Ryan wanted the bow and arrows. Lindsay wanted a Princess head piece and wand. I let them purchase the items. Both were excited to have these items. Was that a really smart move on my end...bows and arrows and a wand hummmm? It made them happy. By the end of the day they were taken away. They start to use them as weapons to start a fight with each other.

Anyways, the kids really enjoy listen to a group of children play the violin. Lindsay danced around with her little price attidude. It was cute. Face painting...I really disliked because with children it can be very mess. Children are already dirty and sweaty why make it worse. But again I could not say "NO." Lindsay had Hell0 Kitty painted on her face, which is her favorite. Ryan had the Transformer Emblem painted on his face. It was already smugged with in seconds after being put on his face. It does not look like a Transformer Emblem. Oh well. I just had two mess kids.

To top everything off they had the water feature finished and sure enough Ryan and Lindsay already had their shoes off and were already in the water. For kids who had water traum; they are starting to do much better and now have to be in the water, touch or near the water. They are now more facinated with the water verse being terrified.

Ryan and Lindsay enjoyed the Art Festival but compare to last year, I didn't enjoy it as much. Maybe, it was a little hard to enjoy since Dan was not with us. It was just me and kids. They didn't seem to have as much as they did last year. And my eyes were more on keeping track of the kids and not to loose them in this big crowd of people. Maybe next year it will be different.

No more Kindergarden! 1st Grade here I come.

2008-06-25T10:14:00.007-06:00

Ryan has been telling us for the last few months he can't wait to be in 1st grade. He took his last test and he Passed. His first words were, "SWEET." He is excited to be a 1st grader. Now, he is telling us he can't wait to be in 2nd grade and that would be."TOTALLY AWESOME." Hold on kid, one grade at a time.

2008-06-25T10:13:00.000-06:00

It's Ballerina Time!

2008-06-25T10:10:00.003-06:00

Lindsay enjoys her ballet class. She was so excited to get her custom on once again. This time for her ballerina photos and for her Ballet Recital on June 13, 2008. She loves to be in front of the camera. This recital was Alice in Wonderland. She was a Red rose. However, this time on stage she was nervous to do her performance. She was not able to see the crowd and had lots of bright lights shining on her.

2008-06-25T10:09:00.000-06:00

There goes Ryan! No that way or was it this way?

2008-06-18T05:46:00.007-06:00

Ryan has a lot of energy and sometimes can be a ticking time bomb ready to explode. He can't seem to hold still. We were trying to find something for him to build his confidence and a place to let off some of this extra energy. Growing up my brothers and I played soccer. I enjoyed playing soccer. We decided to give soccer a shot for him. Who knew he would be such a good player for K divison. He played in the fall and then again during the spring. He was the STAR player. He loves playing the whole game and scoring. Spring soccer was a little different than Fall soccer; he had to figure out how to score with a goalie. Here are a few pictures of Ryan playing soccer enjoy. In the fall he wore Red and in the spring he wore Black with the #8 on it.

2008-06-18T05:44:00.000-06:00

What? I have to read the manual to be a Father!

2008-06-18T05:01:00.003-06:00

Dan is a wonderful father. He enjoys being a big kid himself and teasing our two kids. He is my equal and also deserves the title Mr. Mom. We share the duties of taking care of our kids. He only has the kids a few hours before they go to bed, but his job ends up being protector through out the night and the Hero of scaring the monsters out of our kids rooms. He thinks my job is hard being with the kids all day and taking care of some daily task with no sleep. He too is on no sleep.
The kids enjoy having a father. He is the only real father they have really known. He spends time with them each night taking care of baths, homework, and bed time stories. Once the kids are in bed; he switches gears and becomes the husband I married who does little things for me around the house. Whether it is finishing up the dishes, putting away the laundry, and doing odds and end cleaning around the house and outside. He enjoys finding a way to put a smile on my face.
He is an amazing man and will always be my one true love. I want to thank him on taking this detour of having a family in a different way. He has a lot of patience with these kids. He is always willing to step in and help me out.
Jumping into fatherhood with two older children is a lot hard than having an new born. He jumped in as quickly as he can and on the way learned a lot from watching Super Nanny, reading Super Nanny books and his own experience being the eldest of eight. Dan always joked that our kids came with a manual; we just have to find out which Super Nanny episode it was on. We love him and we know he is a keeper as a friend, husband and a father.

Lindsay Preschool photos!

2008-06-07T10:52:00.001-06:00

At the Dancing Moose, Lindsay's school they were having the kids individual photos...old fashion style. Lindsay was so excited to have her preschool photos taken. She wanted to dress up in the big hats and dresses. I didn't even think of her having any issues. She freaked out. She did not want anyone to help her. She was sad that I was not their to help her put on the pretty dresses. I asked her why she would not allow her teacher to help her. She said, "No one is suppose to see her change or see her naked body." She ended up having her photos taken with her normal clothes on. The teachers did not tell me nor called me. I would have been there, if I only new. I did not find out the problem until when the photos came in. They were still cute photos of Lindsay. Lindsay thought I would be mad. I told her that I am not mad. I am just sad she could not have the photos she wanted all dress up. Next time she can tell her teacher she does not feel comfortable with her helping her and she would like them to call me. And I will let the teacher know ahead of time too or find out what time so I can be there.

2008-06-07T10:51:00.000-06:00

Let's Go Real Salt Lake!!!

2008-05-11T22:30:00.008-06:00

Ryan started to play soccer last fall. He was sad that he was on a break for the winter. When it came Spring; he kept asking when does soccer start. He started to play soccer again Mid-April. He is one of the Star players. he was excited to score 4 goals in one game.
On Saturday, we went to a REAL of Salt Lake soccer game. Ryan was so excited to watch his first soccer game. Ryan attention span was WOW! He would stare at the game with no emotion. Uncle Drew came with us and was trying to help Ryan cheer for the Real team or yell at the bad call. Lindsay wanted to really go with us to the soccer game. We were not sure how long her attention span would last. She was so excited to be at the game. Of course, it was because she saw they had food at the game. She ran right to the ICE CREAM stand. Both kids enjoyed the game. Once the ice cream was gone. Ryan went back to watching the game and Lindsay was ready to go home. Ryan's attention from the game was distracted from time to time; when he saw the cotton candy guy walking around. Once the cotton candy guy was out of view....his focus was back on the game.

Our team won 2 vs 1.

2008-05-11T22:29:00.000-06:00

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

2008-05-11T21:37:00.006-06:00

Happy Mother's Day to the best of best!!!

It has been a wonderful Mother's Day weekend. I had a three day weekend with my family. My children learned from us; "What is Mother's Day?" Ryan and Lindsay were so excited. It was sad that they did not know what Mother's Day was all about. But it was a wonderful experience to make this Mother's Day a first for all of us. The children kept whispering to me; maybe we can make brownies for you, huh Mom. Wouldn't that be nice for Mother's Day? It was so cute to see the excitement in their eyes and smile. I got lots of huges and kisses. I also go "I love you Mom. You are my best Mom. It was nice to hear.

On Sunday, I enjoyed a relaxing nap and waking up to a clean kitchen and a nice Dinner. The children were excited to say they helped for Mother's Day. And every single paper they could get their hands on; they made Mother's Day cards.

It was wonderful to spend time with my kids and be appreciated and loved by them. I have posted a slideshow ...These are a few of my favorite pics. They sure grow up fast and it has only being 18 months since they first joined our home. Enjoy.

Thank you Dan, Ryan and Lindsay for a wonderful Mother's Day!!

2008-05-11T21:36:00.002-06:00

Thank you note to my Husband!

2008-04-14T10:43:00.002-06:00

I want to say Thank you to my Husband for picking up the slack and making sure the house stayed in a little order while I was sick; so it wasn't a disaster zone. I love you honey. I am so thankful my husband is not a lazy slub. He is a keeper for life. Thank you, for making it a little easier coming back. And allowing me the time to really rest. They say a marriage shouldn't be 50/50. A marriage should be where each part is giving 100%. I appreciate you Dan. Honey, you were giving 210%; while mine was on temperary out of order. Thank you for your love, commitment, service, sofe spoken words of compassion and those healing hands.

When it was us (ya know double income and no kids.) We could let a few things wait or hire a temperary Maid to keep up on the daily/weekly cleaning. But now with kids, my heavens if we did not do anything. Lets just say; it would have scared Molly Maids away. Heck, it might have even gone to Clean House. I know you were exhausted working 10 hours days. Then to come home and be Mister Mom and the Super Nanny rolled in one. Usually, you came home to being a part time Super Nanny and lite maid duties from time to time.

I do have to say "What a hottie" to watch you in action. I am thankful and love you more and more each and everyday to have you as my Husband forever. I am thankful for our Heavenly Father whom allowed us these 10 years to be together and the many more years to come for Time and all Eternity.

I love you very much forever and ever.

Mel

Hello Family and Friends

2008-04-14T09:20:00.002-06:00

Just wanted to say Hello to Everyone. It has been awhile since I written or post photos on our Family Blog. We hope all is well with everyone and their family.

We had an enjoyable time for Easter up in Logan, Utah. We visited my husband's side of the family. Ryan and Lindsay were excited to go to the movies with their cousins to see "Horton and the Who." And of course, playing, running around and blowing bubbles. The kids were having so much fun; we forgot to color Easter Egg.

We brought our Dogs with us; Koda and Bauer. They love to travel. They had a field day running around in Aunt Debbie's big backyard. This would have been a perfect day to have my camera in my hand and ready or better yet a video camera.

I will try my best to describe it....but a video clip would have been funnier to watch. Our dogs Bauer and Koda ran up close to her house were there was still snow. They loved to jump around and play in the snow. Bauer drop and rolled on his back and used his back legs to give him a push. The incline or little hill that went away from the house and was a perfect snow slide for Bauer. Bauer would get up and go back to the top of hill and roll back on his back to slide down the hill over and over.

It was absolutely funny. He looked like a seal sliding around on his back until he rolled over and came to a stop. And moments like these you never want to be without a camera or video camera. It was a laughter for everyone and the kids were laughing and giggling. Their excitement would have also been a treasure to get on video watching this event.

Easter morning was different. We had that night into early morning some snow. So, the fun of hiding eggs out side for the Easter Egg Hunt was a no go. As well as our Family was starting to get sick with the flu and cough that was going around. I hate it when our Family gets sick. It effects everything and the everyday task that needs to be done and sometimes takes a weekend to get caught back up.

Our Family has been hit hard with the flu and cough that has been going around. Our attention has been on getting each one of us better. This time around it was not the easiest for both Dan and I. This time I was really sick. I had a fever of 102 degrees and this fever lasted 5 days before it showed a sign of going down. It wasn't until the 6th day that my fever was gone. I had this cough that was at a breaking point of my head feeling like it was going to explode. I have been out of commission for two weeks solid and in bed. This last week and this week it is hard to get back on track and back in the grove of things. I am exhausted and tried.

Thanks to all Family and Friends who helped taking the kids to and from school or watching them until Dan returned home from work. We really appreciate all the help to our Family.

Tooth Fairy, Tooth Fairy, come to my house!

2008-03-14T09:05:00.015-06:00

About three weeks ago Ryan's front tooth came loose; not by natural causes. He decided to use his teeth to pull apart one of his toys. He was afraid to tell us; afraid he would get into trouble. I was excited for him; his tooth was loose. Ryan was not excited; he was freaked out. He finally told me how his tooth got loose.
I told him to leave his tooth alone for awhile and not wiggle it. I kept telling him it will be alright. When it's time for the tooth to come out; it will be OK. I started to talk to him about the Tooth Fairy. He still was not sure about the tooth Fairy. He tried so hard not to wiggle his tooth. But, it doesn't help when you fall down two days later face first.
We needed to make loosing his tooth a big deal and fun for him. How can you make it fun loosing a tooth? I texts my brother Bill who told me to chat with my sister-in-law Kathryn about some of her family traditions about yelling for the Tooth Fairy. What is the cost for loosing a tooth?
A week went by and Ryan still had his tooth. I have been checking his tooth almost every other day. I didn't think the tooth will be coming out. It seemed to tighten back up a little. I guess it wasn't time for it to come out. Boy, was I wrong. On Wednesday Ryan came in to talked to me and I noticed it didn't look right. I told Ryan his tooth came out. He just shrugged his shoulders; like it was nothing. I asked him; "Ry where is your tooth." Again, he shrugged his shoulders. For a minute I thought his tooth broke and his gum was swollen. But to my surprise; his tooth was ready to come out. He had another tooth already coming in.

"Ry without the tooth the Tooth Fairy can't leave him money." Once I said the word; "Money." He ran into his room and pulled out his bed to go underneath to find it. He tossed his tooth against the wall and it fall down between the wall and his bed. Somewhere underneath the trundle. He found his tooth.
I took him outside and told him he has to jump and waive his arms around. He had to yell for the Tooth Fairy. She has to hear he lost his tooth so she can find him and bring her bag of money. We were trying to get him to jump around yelling, "Tooth Fairy, Tooth Fairy! I lost my tooth. Tooth Fairy, Tooth Fairy! Come to my house. Tooth Fairy, Tooth Fairy! I'll see you tonight." He was trying so hard to remember the words, yell and jump around at the same time. He kept starting over and over again.

I told him the Tooth Fairy only comes once and he has to be asleep when she comes. I figure this way he would sleep and I can sneak in and put a note and some change under his pillow. That didn't work. He tried his hardest to keep awake. Any noise would wake him up. I never turned on the light. He thought his note he wrote to the Tooth Fairy was still there. He thought he lost his tooth. He was trying to find his tooth in the dark. I had the tooth and quickly slipped the note and change under his pillow. I told him it would be OK; get some sleep. After, I left he was still moving around. He finally turned on his light to look for his tooth. He started to scream; "The Tooth Fairy did come and I have money." He was so excited.

Love Tag

2008-02-23T21:40:00.006-07:00

This Love Tag was on a friends blog (thanks Kristine). I decided it would be fun to go through memory lane. She tagged a few of her friends to do this. I am going to do the same. I will Tag Shana and Julia.

1. WHAT IS YOUR HUSBAND'S NAME? Daniel Evan....(but he goes by Dan)
2. HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN MARRIED? Wow the big 10 years!
3. HOW LONG DID YOU DATE? We hung out for 2 months and had our first real date in September before I left to go back to school in Utah. And we were apart two weeks and then he moved to Utah. We were engaged after a twelve hour drive to Utah. We were engage for 1 year. Don't recommend long engagements. Our parents freaked out after two months of knowing each other. So, I guess when you really add up how long we dated...I guess you can say we only had one real date.
4. HOW OLD IS HE? He is now 36. I have been planning his "Over the hill" party for the last 7 years. Yeah, I started when he was 29 and complaining he was an old man. He has been complaining every year, of every month, of every week, of every day, of every hour, and of every minute. I am trying to decide if I should really wait for his 40th Birthday or do it sooner.
5. WHO EATS MORE SWEETS? Definitely he does! (He even eats it in front of the kids when they lose their snack)
6. WHO SAID 'I LOVE YOU' FIRST? He whispered, "I love you" in my ear. I was asleep on the floor at my parents house. And the funny thing is that we weren't dating at that time. Boy, did I wake up pretty fast and said, "Thank you."
7. WHO IS TALLER? Dan is 6 ft. I am 5'7'
8. WHO CAN SING BETTER? Funny question. Not me and not him. I guess, you can say I do. He likes to sit next to me and change the words of the song until he gets me to start messing up.
9. WHO IS SMARTER? We have not discussed this one who is smarter. I guess, there are somethings that are still unanswered. We are both smart in different things.
10. WHO DOES THE LAUNDRY? I have to say we both do. Before we had kids it was mostly ME! He was shrinking my clothes or mixing certain colors that bleed all over the other clothes. Or ironing clothing that end up changing colors or leaving a light imprint of the iron. He learned to sort HIS and HERS. If he was trying to be helpful; He did the House laundry and His laundry. ...Leaving my alone to avoid a very expensive shopping spree to Nordstrom to replace damage clothing. Now I have kids; I feel they just empty there drawers of cleaning laundry back in the hampers for me to rewash. As I am doing laundry and sorting them, I come across several clothing items still folded. I have a lot of things to teach my kids.
11. WHO PAYS THE BILLS? Me, for now.
12. WHO SLEEPS ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE BED? Dan and I decided it does not matter which side of the bed we slept on. Well, technically I sleep on the Right and he sleeps on the left. If I sleep on the left, Dan seems to find him self rolled out of bed and right onto the floor. I guess you can say I am a roller. That darn daybed growing up.
13. WHO MOWS THE LAWN? We both do yard work. Most of the time it is Dan. One year I hired a neighborhood boy to mow our lawn. Which meant more time for Dan to spend with me since I fractured my tail bone and he had to do everything; house work, laundry, cooking, yard work...everything. Boy, I missed my Man of a Maid.
14. WHO COOKS DINNER? I love to show off my cooking skills. Dan was so excited to marry someone who can cook. Now we both do. And let me say, "I love it." He has surprised me with dinner on many occasion.
15. WHO DRIVES? I do a lot of the driving. When we are on the go; he just got off of work, taking his pills (drowsiness hits), or he is usually changing in the car. When we drive to California he usually will do most of the driving.
16. WHO IS MORE STUBBORN? It is me. Poor guy, he doesn't have a stubborn bone in his body.
17. WHO ASKED OUT WHOM FIRST? Well, he made the first move in come up to me and start talking to me. He called me up a few days later and asked if it would be alright if we can go out sometime. Nothing, so I starting inviting people over to hang out my parents house. And then I started inviting less and less guys. It ended up it was just him and my brothers at the house. Oh yeah, it took him a few weeks to figure out my brothers were my brothers. My brothers wanted to play a joke on him. I'd figure, why not.
18. WHO PROPOSED? I don't know. After a twelve hour drive from California to Utah and I might say very interesting and enjoyable conversation. I asked him, "If we were engaged." He said, "Yes." He then tried several times to surprise me and do a real proposal. That didn't work for him, I always ended up asking him, "If he was proposing tfinally gave up.
19. WHO HAS MORE SIBLINGS? He does. He is the oldest of 8. Yes, eight kids in his family. In his family there are 3 boys and 5 girls. We figure his mom was pregnant the first 10 1/2 years. Two weeks out of the year Dan and his sister are the same age. I am the 3 child out of 6. I have 5 brothers. I am smack in the middle of boys. No wonder I was a Tom Boy for most of my childhood. It wasn't until freshman year; I started to change.
20. WHO WEARS THE PANTS? Ha ha ha! Quoting from the blog of Kristine regarding this question. She said,"I'd say we're equal, but I have more opinions." Of course, it's me. If he made all the decisions we will still be on our first date; starting to expire and smell; while he is still deciding what to eat off the menu. He is much better now. Just after we were married his Uncle gave him some advise, "Yes dear, anything you say dear." And of course, my parents advised him to succeed or to have things go his way to use one of the following phrases, "Do you have anything else to say?", "Regardless!", and "Nevertheless."

For those who have sons & for those who are happy that they don't.

2008-02-23T20:55:00.005-07:00

I received an email today and I had to post a few of the photos and some interesting thoughts on boys on the blog. Growing up with boys and now having a son of my own...I never know what he is really thinging when he does something. It is just a boy thing. If you would like me to send you the full email with all the other really funny photos; send me an email and I will send the rest of the photos. These two remind me of my son Ryan or something my husband would do when he was little.

And you also find out interesting things when you have sons, like ...

1. A king size water bed holds enough water to fill a 2000 sq. ft. house 4 inches deep.

2. If you spray hair spray on dust bunnies and run over them with roller blades, they can ignite.

3. A 3-year old Boy's voice is louder than 200 adults in a crowded restaurant.

4. If you hook a dog leash over a ceiling fan, the motor is not strong enough to rotate a 42 pound Boy wearing Batman underwear and a Superman cape. It is strong enough, however, if tied to a paint can, to spread paint on all four walls of a 20x20 ft. room.

5. You should not throw baseballs up when the ceiling fan is on. When using a ceilin g fan as a bat, you have to throw the ball up a few times before you get a hit. A ceiling fan can hit a baseball a long way.

6. The glass in windows (even double-pane) doesn't stop a baseball hit by a ceiling fan.

7. When you hear the toilet flush and the words "uh oh", it's already too late.

8. Brake fluid mixed with Clorox makes smoke, and lots of it.

9. A six-year old Boy can start a fire with a flint rock even though a 36-year old Man says they can only do it in the movies.

10. Certain Lego's will pass through the digestive tract of a 4- year old Boy.

11. Play dough and microwave should not be used in the same sentence.

12. Super glue is forever.

13. No matter how much Jell-O you put in a swimming pool you still can't walk on water.

14. Pool filters do not like Jell-O.

15. VCR's do no t eject "PB & J" sandwiches even though TV commercials show they do.

16. Garbage bags do not make good parachutes.

17. Marbles in gas tanks make lots of noise when driving.

18. You probably DO NOT want to know what that odor is.

19. Always look in the oven before you turn it on; plastic toys do not like ovens.

20. The fire department in Austin , TX has a 5-minute response time.

21. The spin cycle on the washing machine does not make earthworms dizzy.

22. It will, however, make cats dizzy.

23. Cats throw up twice their body weight when dizzy.

24. 80% of Women will pass this on to almost all of their friends, with or without kids.

25. 80% of Men who read this will try mixing the Clorox and brake fluid

Asked to Speak; "What?"

2008-02-22T09:09:00.002-07:00

We were asked to speak for the UFCF to a foster care pre service class were other families working on getting their license or relicensing. They wanted us to share our experience in adopting two children from foster care. We were bribed to get credit hours; since we are renewing our license. They have been asking since we adopted our two children to come and speak and share the good, the bad and the ugly of our children.

It was sad to think of all the bad and the ugly. But it was wonderful, to remember all the good. It was nice to share that we have a lot of good days. We wanted to give the children a history or a life book for them. We started it but have been so busy we could not keep up with it. We now have the kids story down and are ready to put it into scrapebooks. A scrapebook they can always look at and a scrapebook they can have when they turn 18 years of age and ask for the information.

It is not a baby book; but we are going to make a special book for them. We will see if we get ask us back or if we get blacklist to not be asked to speak again. Maybe, we scared to many foster care potentionals.

The snow keeps coming down.

2008-02-22T09:04:00.005-07:00

We have been having snow storm after snow storm. The kids have been excited to go out side in the snow. They were acting as if it was a day at the beach. Lindsay wanted to wear her swim suit instead of getting dressed up in warmer clothes; she was too hot to wear her jacket. When she came in she said, "Mom I told you I will get wet. Now, I have to change my clothes".

If you are not careful....You might get hit with a snowball.

"We didn't throw the snowball in the house. Our hands are clean."

They want you to think they are just innocent and full of gigles.

Our beloved Prophet Gordan B Hinkley

2008-02-06T12:27:00.004-07:00

Our family was able to take part; along with thousand of others to stand in line at the Conference Center to have the opportunity to say Good Bye to our Prophet Gordan B Hinkley. We were prepared with snacks, warmer clothes, and quite games for the kids. We ended up leaving the games in the car since we were racing to catch the trax. Lindsay and Ryan had to learn another way to entertain themselves; quietly.

Our family experience was standing in line for about 2 and 1/2 hours; only a few feet from doors. We heard once you entered the Conference Center it would be another 2 or 3 hours. Lindsay said, "Mom, I am ready to go home, to our home." Ryan said, "The last time we waited in line for long time was at Disneyland. What is the ride at the end." We knew it was time to go home.

We will have the memories of standing in line. The comment's the kids shared and moment we had to teach our children. A few of my favorite comments was Lindsay explaining to everyone in line; "the Prophet died and we are getting a clean Prophet." Her replied when asked Why; "Because he is a dirty prophet with all that dirt." Lindsay and Ryan, both were singing "Following the Prophet" and telling everyone they were married in the Temple.

We warmed up in the Visitor Center and gave the kids a tour of the Visitor Center. A nice way to finish our first FHE.

Dan's Family

2008-01-21T00:18:00.001-07:00

Dan's family is not small. His parents had eight children; 3 boys and 5 girls. We had it figured out that his folks had eight children in the first 11 years of their marriage. This picture was taking in 2006. Dan is the eldest of his family. At the time of this picture we had no children. Dan and his sister Becky are the same age 2 weeks out of the year. Becky is married to Chad and they have two girls and one boy; Kacie, Logan, and Jessica. Debbie is married to Brett and they have one girl; Ellie. Rachelle married Richard and they have one girl and one boy; Kamae and Kyle. David married Jennifer the honeymoon is over; they had a little girl Katelyn. Still living the single night life are Mike, Marie and Sarah.

My Family

2008-01-20T23:29:00.000-07:00

My Family has grown in the last 13 years. My Parents had six kids; 5 boys and 1 girl. Of course, that means I was the only girl. I remember telling myself; one day I will have my sisters. Bill married Kathryn and they have three beautiful girls; Hannah, Eliza, and Sophia. Mark married Staci and they have two girls and one boy; Emma, Rebecca, and Matthew. I married Daniel in and we now have one boy and one girl. Jared married Miriam and they have one girl and one boy; Eva and I call my newest nephew Gavin (aka baby Jared Jr.). Joshua married Lorretta and they are still the newlyweds. And my youngest brother Andrew enjoying the single life. The count today is Girls 13 and Boys 10. As you can see the girls are out numbering the boys. And that is just on my side.

Snow Angels

2008-01-09T12:35:00.000-07:00

Ryan will be six in February. He keeps tell everyone he is six, almost. He has a lot of energy. Sometimes, way too much energy. He loves to have fun, enjoys boy movies not girl movies, and love to play with his Transformers and Star Wars toys. He is excited to be in Kindergarten; and we are too...it's all day kindergarten.

Lindsay just turned four last October. She is a girly girl all the way and loves to be the Princess of the house. She loves her ballet classes and is excited to start a new preschool. She laughs everytime she says her preschool name. She thinks it is funny to have a school named Dancing Moose.

Lindsay's ballet recital

2008-01-05T09:28:00.000-07:00

Lindsay started ballet at C & C Ballet after her 4th Birthday. She has been very excited to finally be a ballerina. She had her first recital December 19th, just before the Christmas break. Lindsay was wearing a cute red outfit and antlers; dancing to Rudolph the red nose reindeer. She did great! The ballet recital was held at a high school gym instead of an auditorium; due to the auditorium was vandalized two days before the recital. She is third ballerina from the left. Enjoy the recital.

2008 Family News Letter

2008-01-03T11:21:00.001-07:00

Our first Family newsletter

The 2007 year has been a very interesting year. We are grateful for Family and Friends. Without our Family and Friends 2007 would have been even harder then we thought it would be. We want to Thank each one of our Family and Friends who lend an ear, encouraging advice and a hug when needed. We are blessed to have you as part of our support system.

We started the year off as a Foster Family for a sibling group that need a home. It was not easy going from nine years of marriage and have placed with us a little boy 4 1/2 and a little girl 3 years of age. They were placed in our home October 2006. The honeymoon was over the first hour after having them in our care. It started out to be a hard adjustment. We wanted so much for this to be a positive experience and share our home with children who need a safe and loving environment.

We have been told things will come around once you give unconditional love. That was one factor in the equation. The problem we did not know how to give unconditional love to not one but two children who so much did not want it. They did not know what was going on and why they were not with their family. It was hard to see them and their sad brown, teary eyes look at you and not understand.

These two silly monkeys brought the good, the bad and the ugly all at once and it seemed a little to overwhelming most of the times. For a couple, who did not have children for 9 years of their marriage; it made you think of the years of not having children look better and better.

We did not want to spoil them, but we want them to have some good memories and some fun experience. Things changed because we were not giving up on them. We took them to meet our Family and go on a Family Vacation. Things were looking good. Both Ryan and Lindsay were growing and learning to play catch up to all the other kids.

Ryan and Lindsay are both happy to be adopted and sealed to our Family. They can't believe how many cousins they now have. Ryan is almost six years old. He is in all day Kindergarden. There are days he wishes he could stay home and play instead of going to school. He enjoyed playing soccer when it was not cold and rainy. Lindsay just turned 4 years old and is in preschool a few hours durning the week. She enjoys her ballet class and just had her first receital. She loves telling everyone we are married now.

We are happy they are able to be adopted and stay in our home as a part of our family. We thought that day would never come. We are able to start 2008 off with a new start as a Family and put some of the unhappy memories behind us and move forward. We wish everyone a Happy New Year.

And may your dreams and wishes come true.....For us it has, especially now we have finished the downstairs basement as a playroom and a functioning toilet. The toilet started off as a joke, "What would you like for Christmas? A toilet." Thanks to my Mom and Dad for letting that happen. And to Dan's Mom and Dad thank you for your contributions for a soon to be bathroom sink. I am just waiting on Dan to finish hooking it all up. This joke finally came true and makes a good family story.

Of course, we will still be sending stories and photos of our Dogs; Koda and Bauer from time to time. Just because there are grand kids from us now; doesn't me I am going to stop with photos of just the kids. Let's see I will have to send the update on Koda's Hello and tricks. Oh! and Bauer can crawl. We are still working on Bauer's Hello. Our two cats have hit the up tight old maids.

Again Happy New years from our Family to yours.
Dan, Mel, Ryan and Lindsay.
(koda, bauer, parie, and pacey too! we can't forget them too!)

Our First Real Family Photo

2007-12-29T18:50:00.001-07:00

This Family photo was taken at the beginning of November in Memory Grove with our two dogs Koda and Bauer. This is our First official Family photo. We are glad to have Ryan and Lindsay as part of our Family.

Two Kids

2007-11-25T13:07:00.003-07:00

Our two "silly monkeys", Ryan and Lindsay. They love to laugh and smile. We call them our "silly monkeys" because of how giggly and silly they can be. They love calling everyone silly monkeys; hence the name.

Our Annoucement

2007-11-25T12:33:00.004-07:00

Daniel and Melissa

joyfully announce the adoption

of their children

Ryan Evan

and

Lindsay Caitlyn

on Monday the twenty fourth of

September two thousand and seven.

Ryan and Lindsay are being

sealed to our Family

on Saturday the twenty fourth

of November two thousand and seven

for time and all eternity

in the California Oakland L.D.S. Temple.